J. Daniel Harkins

J. Daniel Harkins is a distinguished business attorney and intellectual property litigator who leads Dykema’s IP and IP litigation group. With over 35 years of experience, he has successfully represented manufacturers, retailers, and other businesses in safeguarding their valuable intellectual property assets. Dan is respected for his ability to maintain focus on client goals, delivering strategic litigation solutions even during the most contentious disputes.

Dan earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Philosophy, graduating cum laude from the University of Dallas in 1981. He pursued his legal studies at St. Mary’s University School of Law, obtaining his Juris Doctor with honors in 1987. His strong academic foundation has been instrumental in developing his meticulous approach to intellectual property protection and business-focused litigation.

Licensed in Texas and admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court, the Fifth Circuit, and multiple federal district courts across Texas, Dan offers extensive experience in complex intellectual property litigation. His practice covers a wide spectrum of IP matters, including patent disputes, trademark infringement, copyright infringement, trade secret misappropriation, and unfair competition claims. Known for his strategic, business-focused approach, Dan helps clients evaluate litigation risk, develop clear legal strategies, and protect their intellectual property and competitive advantage.

Throughout his career, J. Daniel Harkins has received widespread professional recognition. He has been consistently listed in The Best Lawyers in America® for his work in intellectual property and litigation from 2011 through 2023. Additionally, he has been named San Antonio’s “Lawyer of the Year” multiple times and holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell. Dan remains a trusted advisor for clients seeking skilled and level-headed representation in high-stakes intellectual property disputes.

Law Office Affiliations

• Member, Dykema Gossett PLLC
• Member, State Bar of Texas
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, San Antonio Bar Association
• Member, American Intellectual Property Law Association
• Member, San Antonio Intellectual Property Law Association
• Member, San Antonio Bar Foundation
• Member, Texas Association of Defense Counsel
• Member, Bar Association of the Fifth Circuit

Licensed State

• Texas

Education

• St. Mary’s University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Dallas
  Bachelor of Science

Awards & Badges