Melanie J. Howard

Melanie J. Howard is a nationally recognized attorney with deep experience in intellectual property, brand protection, and commercial transactions across fashion, luxury, entertainment, media, and technology. She advises major brands, public figures, and digital innovators on acquiring, licensing, enforcing, and selling intangible assets. Clients rely on her for her strategic insight, legal precision, and deep understanding of the evolving digital and consumer landscape.

Melanie earned her J.D. from Harvard Law School, where she served as Articles Editor of the Harvard Negotiation Law Review. She holds a B.A. in Political Science and German Studies from Williams College, graduating cum laude and earning Dean’s List honors.

Melanie leads Luxury Brands and Brand Protection practices, guiding clients through global trademark portfolios, high-stakes licensing, and anti-counterfeiting strategies. She is also a go-to advisor on influencer agreements, sponsorships, IP issues in M&A transactions, and strategic brand collaborations.

Melanie’s legal work has supported leading deals for clients such as Gap, Balenciaga, Earth Island, Saks Fifth Avenue, and the estate of Kobe Bryant. Melanie has also counseled on high-profile matters involving AI technology and data privacy, particularly in relation to generative AI, cross-border data transfers, and digital compliance strategies.

Recognized among the “Top 100 Lawyers” by the Daily Journal and featured as a “Beauty & Fashion Visionary” by the Los Angeles Times, Melanie has earned consistent honors in Best Lawyers in America, The Legal 500, Managing IP, and World Trademark Review.

Beyond her client work, Melanie J. Howard is active in thought leadership and pro bono initiatives. She has received the ACLU of Southern California’s Community Service Award and contributes to organizations such as Saving Innocence, Dress for Success, and The Bail Project.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Loeb & Loeb LLP
• Member, International Trademark Association
• Member, Los Angeles County Bar Association
• Member, International Association of Privacy Professionals
• Member, International Anti-Counterfeiting Coalition
• Founding Director, Opportunities Without Borders

Licensed State

• California

Education

• Harvard Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Williams College
  BA in Political Science & German Studies with Cum Laude

Awards & Badges