John M. Desmarais

John M. Desmarais is a leading trial attorney known for his national reputation in intellectual property litigation. With decades of courtroom success, he has led high-stakes jury trials for both plaintiffs and defendants. His results include billion-dollar wins, complete defense verdicts, and landmark settlements in patent disputes involving top global tech and life sciences companies.

John earned his Bachelor of Chemical Engineering from Manhattan College, graduating magna cum laude and receiving the Chemical Engineering Medal. He went on to receive his Juris Doctor from New York University School of Law in 1988. He is admitted to practice in New York, the District of Columbia, and California, and before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

John launched his legal career at a top intellectual property law firm before serving as a federal prosecutor in the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York. He later returned to private practice, rapidly advancing into leadership roles. John has served on law firm management committees and played a key role in developing litigation strategies for high-stakes patent cases in courts across the United States.

John has delivered major courtroom wins, including a $1.5 billion verdict for Alcatel-Lucent against Microsoft and a $372 million judgment for Ravgen in a prenatal testing patent case. He has also secured full defense verdicts for Apple, Cisco, and Google, defeating claims worth hundreds of millions. His skill in cross-examination and legal strategy is widely cited in legal and national media.

John M. Desmarais remains one of the most respected voices in trial law, known for his precise litigation skills, proven results, and dedication to intellectual property advocacy at the highest level. He has received consistent top-tier recognition from Chambers, Best Lawyers, IAM, and Managing IP. He holds fellowships with elite legal groups like the American College of Trial Lawyers. His career reflects a strong commitment to advancing IP law and setting new standards in trial excellence.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Desmarais LLP
• Fellow, American College of Trial Lawyers
• Fellow, International Academy of Trial Lawyers
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, New York Bar Association
• Member, DC Bar Association
• Member, California Bar Association

Licensed State

• New York
• California
• District of Columbia

Education

• New York University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Manhattan College
  BChE with Magna Cum Laude

Awards & Badges