Clifford C. Dougherty, III

Clifford C. Dougherty, III, is a shareholder at McAfee & Taft with a career devoted exclusively to intellectual property law. He represents clients nationwide and internationally in matters involving trademarks, patents, copyrights, licensing, and related transactions, as well as IP litigation before federal courts, the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB), and the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB). Known for his direct and proactive approach, Mr. Dougherty serves as exclusive IP counsel for companies ranging from start-ups to large public corporations, helping them develop, protect, and maximize the value of their intellectual property.

Mr. Dougherty earned his B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Oklahoma before obtaining his J.D., with distinction, from the University of Oklahoma College of Law. While in law school, he was a member of the Oklahoma Law Review and Phi Delta Phi.

Admitted to practice in Oklahoma and before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), Mr. Dougherty is an experienced intellectual property attorney focused on global trademark clearance and registration, patent prosecution, advertising and internet law, and complex licensing agreements. He has led clients through high-stakes IP disputes involving patent and trademark infringement, copyright infringement, cybersquatting, and unfair competition, helping protect and enforce their intellectual property rights in today’s digital and global marketplace.

Clifford C. Dougherty, III, has received professional honors, including listings in Chambers USA, Best Lawyers, and Oklahoma Super Lawyers, as well as multiple “Lawyer of the Year” distinctions from Best Lawyers in trademark, patent, and IP litigation. Mr. Dougherty works closely with clients to craft tailored IP strategies that align with their business goals, minimize legal risks, and strengthen market position. Whether guiding a multinational corporation through complex licensing or protecting a start-up’s innovations, he combines legal acumen with practical insight to deliver results that safeguard and grow intellectual property assets worldwide.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, McAfee & Taft A Professional Corporation
• Past President, Oklahoma Bar Association (Intellectual Property Section)
• Member, American Bar Association (Intellectual Property Section; Intellectual Property Litigation Committee; Corporate Counsel Committee)
• Member, Oklahoma Bar Foundation
• Member, International Trademark Association
• Member, American Intellectual Property Law Association (Trademark Committee)
• Member, Federal Circuit Bar Association
• Member, Oklahoma Venture Forum

Licensed State

• Oklahoma

Education

• University of Oklahoma
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Oklahoma
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges