Frank W. Ryan

Frank W. Ryan is a widely respected strategist and litigator known for guiding complex legal matters with clarity and purpose. He advises leading media, sports, and entertainment organizations on high-stakes disputes, intellectual property challenges, and investigations, helping clients manage risk, protect brands, and reach practical resolutions.

Frank earned his B.S. from Syracuse University as a four-year varsity letter winner, building discipline and leadership early in his career. He later completed his J.D. at Syracuse University College of Law, graduating magna cum laude and as a member of the Order of the Coif.

Frank focuses his practice on media, sports and entertainment, litigation, arbitration and investigations, and intellectual property matters. He is frequently sought for disputes involving broadcast, technology, branding, and major sporting events, where strategy, timing, and coordinated decision-making are critical to successful outcomes for global organizations and rights holders.

Frank has counseled a broad roster of high-profile clients, including Disney, ABC, Nike, ESPN, TomTom, Pac-12, beIN Media Group, Al Jazeera, Medtronic, and ConMed. His experience also includes significant matters connected to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, involving complex cross-border coordination, regulatory scrutiny, and commercial sensitivities.

Frank has been recognized by The Legal 500 United States for excellence across multiple categories. His recommendations include Sport, Telecoms & Broadcast: Transactional, Technology: Transactions, Trademarks: Litigation, and Trademarks: Non-Contentious, including Prosecution, Portfolio Management, and Licensing across multiple years, reflecting consistent performance in complex matters.

Frank contributes to the profession through leadership and service roles that support access to justice and innovation. He serves on the Board of Trustees for Syracuse University College of Law and participates on the Legal Services Corporation’s Leaders Council, as well as the Wall Street Journal CEO Council and the Thomson Reuters’ Global Strategy Board.

Frank W. Ryan is known for a practical, forward-looking approach that balances legal precision with business realities. He is frequently quoted in legal and business media and valued for helping organizations navigate change, resolve disputes efficiently, and make informed decisions during moments of pressure globally.

Law Office Affiliations

• Co-Chair, Global Co-CEO and Americas Chair, DLA Piper LLP (US)
• Member, New York State Bar Association

Licensed State

• New York

Education

• Syracuse University College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Syracuse University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges