Marshall, Gerstein & Borun LLP, Chicago's largest intellectual property boutique law firm, celebrates its 70th anniversary in October 2025. With more IP attorneys than any other firm in Chicago and more than three decades in the iconic Willis Tower, the firm continues to excel in complex, high-stakes litigation and IP strategy.
A Legacy of Innovation and Excellence
Since its founding in 1955, Marshall Gerstein has grown from a small litigation practice into Chicago's largest IP boutique, delivering a full spectrum of IP services, from patent and trademark prosecution to litigation and transactional counsel. Headquartered in Willis Tower since the mid-1990s, the firm embodies Chicago's spirit of innovation from one of the country's most recognizable landmarks.
"A singular focus defines our history: empowering innovators to thrive," said Jeffrey S. Sharp, managing partner of Marshall Gerstein. "We're proud of the legacy we've built over 70 years, but we're even more excited about the future. As technology advances at a breathtaking pace, our role in helping clients protect and realize the value of their ideas has never been more important."
Celebrating Recent Client Triumphs
As the firm marks its 70th anniversary, Marshall Gerstein's recent successes showcase the same hallmark strengths that have defined its history: strategic advocacy, technical depth, and a commitment to protecting the ideas that move industries forward. Recent examples include:
CureVac AG – $740M Global Settlement with
Pfizer/BioNTech
Marshall Gerstein served as CureVac's trial counsel in a
high-profile IP dispute against Pfizer and BioNTech concerning mRNA
vaccine patents. In August 2025, shortly before the trial was set
to begin, CureVac secured a global settlement regarding
CureVac's foundational patents, including those covering mRNA
purification and split poly A tail technologies. Under the
settlement, CureVac and its partner, GSK, will receive $740
million, in addition to ongoing U.S. royalties on sales of the
COVID-19 vaccine. Law.com spotlighted the firm's IP litigation
team for securing this strategic victory.
Amgen Inc. – $80M Biosimilar
Judgment
In a significant trial victory, Marshall Gerstein's team
secured an $80 million judgment for long-time client Amgen in a
biosimilar patent infringement case, Amgen vs. Hospira,
concerning Hospira's proposed biosimilar version of Amgen's
Epogen® (epoetin alfa) medicine. The case resulted in the first
jury verdict in a case filed under the Biologics Price Competition
and Innovation Act (BPCIA).
Zebra Technologies – Aiding Strategic Growth
through Acquisition
When Zebra Technologies Corporation, a global leader in innovative
software, hardware, and digital solutions, sought to accelerate its
growth in machine vision through the acquisition of Matrox's
imaging division, the company turned to Marshall Gerstein to
navigate the complex IP issues at the heart of the deal. The firm
assembled an interdisciplinary team with deep experience in IP
transactions, electrical engineering patent prosecution, and
trademark law to ensure a seamless process. Their work safeguarded
Zebra's interests, particularly around the use of IP assets
with applications spanning multiple business lines.
Marshall Gerstein is committed to fostering innovation through diversity, recognizing that great ideas and exceptional talent come from all backgrounds. The firm invests in early pipeline initiatives to introduce and develop future legal leaders, while also supporting mentorship and sponsorship programs that advance diverse attorneys within the profession. By collaborating with clients who share its dedication to inclusive innovation, Marshall Gerstein strengthens both the profession and the communities it serves. These efforts have earned the firm national recognition, including Mansfield Certification Plus and multiple Leadership Council on Legal Diversity (LCLD) awards for its work in advancing diversity in the legal field.
"We remain steadfast in investing in our team today and building the pipeline of talent for tomorrow," Sharp added. "By identifying exceptional talent early and fostering their growth to meet client needs, we're strengthening both our firm and the future of innovation."