The United States remains one of the most active and competitive markets for intellectual property protection, with thousands of patents filed annually. The legal landscape is dominated by key patent prosecution firms that play a crucial role in protecting innovations across various industries. This report provides insights into the top 25 patent prosecution firms, trends in patent filings, and international case exchanges. Whether you’re a law firm seeking strategic partnerships or an innovator navigating the U.S. patent system, this analysis offers valuable takeaways.
Rank: Largest 25 Patent Prosecution Firms in the US
Over the period between 2019-2023, the top patent law firms in the U.S. have handled a substantial volume of filings, demonstrating their expertise and dominance in the field. The leading firm, Fish & Richardson, recorded an impressive 48,562 filings, solidifying its position at the top. Other major players include Sughrue Mion, PLLC with 36,523 filings, and Foley & Lardner LLP with 32,875 filings.
The top 5 firms, in terms of total filings, are:
Fish & Richardson – 48,562 filings
Sughrue Mion, PLLC – 36,523 filings
Foley & Lardner LLP – 32,875 filings
Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP – 29,286 filings
Knobbe, Martens, Olson & Bear, LLP – 29,145 filings
Beyond the top 10, firms such as Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP and Oliff PLC continue to play a significant role in the industry. Many of these firms focus on technology-driven patent applications, ensuring that clients in software, biotech, and engineering industries receive the best protection for their innovations.
Patent Filing Trends in the US
Patent filings in the U.S. have shown fluctuations over the past five years, with a slight decline in 2023 compared to previous years. However, firms such as Nixon & Vanderhye P.C. saw a 33% increase. These shifts indicate changing strategies among firms, possibly due to global economic conditions and evolving patenting priorities.
Interestingly, while some firms are experiencing downturns, others are expanding their reach by increasing their engagement with international clients. The patent filing landscape is also seeing a shift toward AI, blockchain, and green technology patents*, reflecting the broader industry’s push towards cutting-edge innovations. Firms specializing in these areas may see higher demand in the coming years.
US: Number of Patent Applications and Shares of Foreign Filings per Firm
Case Exchange Trends in the US
The U.S. remains a global hub for patent filings, with significant international case exchanges:
Countries sending patents to the U.S.: Major contributors include Japan, China, Germany, and South Korea, reflecting strong international interest in U.S. patent protection.
Countries receiving patents from the U.S.: The leading destinations for U.S.-filed patents include China, the European Patent Office (EPO), Japan, and Canada, highlighting the importance of cross-border IP strategies.
One of the most notable trends is the increasing influence of Chinese applicants in the U.S. patent system. As China continues to expand its technological capabilities, its patent applications in the U.S. have surged, making it a key player in international IP exchanges. Similarly, U.S. companies are strategically filing patents in Europe and Asia, emphasizing the need for law firms with global expertise.
Countries Receiving Most Cases from US: Country Breakdown 2019-2023
Countries Sending Most Cases to US: Country Breakdown 2019-2023
Strategic Insights for IP Law Firms
Understanding these trends can help law firms refine their strategies, whether in client acquisition, international partnerships, or service differentiation. Firms experiencing a decline in filings may need to reassess their market approach, while those with growing numbers can leverage their momentum for expansion. Additionally, global case exchanges underscore the need for strong international collaboration to optimize patent protection for clients.
Furthermore, with technology evolving rapidly, law firms should consider enhancing their expertise in fields such as artificial intelligence, clean energy, and biotechnology patents. These areas are expected to dominate the IP landscape in the coming years, presenting growth opportunities for firms that can adapt to new technologies.
Conclusion
The U.S. patent landscape continues to evolve, with leading firms adapting to new challenges and opportunities. By staying informed on key trends, law firms can better position themselves for success. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your domestic presence or expand internationally, data-driven insights like these can serve as a valuable guide for strategic decision-making.
Firms that stay ahead of industry changes, build strong global networks, and invest in emerging technologies will be best positioned to thrive in the coming years. As patent filings continue to shift, a proactive and data-driven approach will be essential for success.
*Trends based on data coming out of the USPTO: New benchmark USPTO study finds artificial intelligence in U.S. patents rose by more than 100% since 2002 / Is Your Blockchain Invention Patentable?
