Mary Ann Novak

Mary Ann Novak is an accomplished litigator specializing in intellectual property and complex commercial disputes. With extensive experience representing clients in matters involving trademarks, trade dress, copyright, patents (utility and design), trade secrets, false advertising, and right of publicity disputes, Mary Ann has built a strong reputation for handling high-stakes litigation across federal courts nationwide, as well as appellate courts.

A graduate of Stanford Law School, where she earned her J.D. with honors and contributed as an editor to both the Stanford Law Review and Stanford Law & Policy Review, Mary Ann combines academic excellence with practical expertise. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts with Highest Distinction from the University of Michigan.

Mary Ann chairs her firm’s Trademark Practice Group, advising clients on various intellectual property matters. Her practice includes trademark clearance, prosecution, and litigation before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB), where she has handled oppositions, cancellations, and concurrent use proceedings. She provides tailored counsel to clients ranging from startups and individual entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 companies, representing manufacturing, consumer goods, entertainment, apparel, and financial services.

Before joining her current firm, Mary Ann clerked for Judge Michael Murphy of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit and Judge Martha Vázquez of the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico. She also gained invaluable experience at Irell & Manella LLP in Los Angeles, further honing her skills in intellectual property litigation.

As a past Chair of the Nebraska State Bar Association’s Intellectual Property Law Section, Mary Ann is a respected leader in her field. She frequently speaks on trademark and intellectual property matters, reflecting her commitment to advancing knowledge and best practices in the legal community.

Mary Ann Novak’s comprehensive understanding of intellectual property law and dedication to client success have made her a trusted advocate for protecting and enforcing intellectual property rights.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Hilgers Graben PLLC
• Chair, Trademark Practice Group
• Counsels Clients, Intellectual Property Matters and Transactions
• Past Chair, Nebraska State Bar Association

Licensed State

• Nebraska
• California
• New Mexico

Education

• Stanford Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Michigan
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges