Seth I. Appel

Seth I. Appel is an intellectual property lawyer who helps businesses protect valuable brands, creative works, and market identity. His work covers trademark, copyright, unfair competition, and false advertising matters. He advises on clearance, prosecution, licensing, enforcement, and litigation. Seth also represents clients in federal courts and before the USPTO Trademark Trial and Appeal Board, helping them address complex disputes with practical, business-focused legal guidance.

Seth earned a J.D. from Columbia Law School and a B.A. in history from Cornell University. His education supports a practice built on careful research, strong writing, and clear analysis. He applies that background when reviewing legal risks, preparing filings, and explaining options to clients.

Seth has built a legal career focused on protecting intellectual property across many industries, including food, retail, media, software, hotels, gaming, pharmaceuticals, and technology. He helps clients avoid risk before problems grow, and he also supports them when disputes require strong action. His guidance can help businesses choose marks, manage rights, negotiate licenses, oppose conflicting claims, respond to infringement, and address unfair market conduct with steady confidence and practical care.

Seth I. Appel is also active in professional leadership and legal writing. He has served in leadership roles with the Copyright Society of the U.S.A. and contributes to legal publications covering trademark and copyright developments. His work helps clients and professionals understand changing IP issues. Through careful advice, courtroom experience, and practical problem-solving, Seth helps businesses protect ideas, brands, creative assets, and rights with confidence and care.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Pattishall, McAuliffe, Newbury, Hilliard & Geraldson LLP
• Member, American Bar Association, IP Law Section
• Member, International Trademark Association
• Member, Intellectual Property Law Association of Chicago
• Member, California Lawyers for the Arts
• Member, The Copyright Society
• Member, Illinois State Bar Association
• Member, State Bar of California

Licensed State

• Illinois
• California

Education

• Columbia Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Cornell University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges