Stephen E. Noona

Stephen E. Noona is a highly respected trial lawyer with nearly 40 years of experience in handling complex commercial litigation. He serves as the Chair of Litigation and Co-Chair of Intellectual Property at Kaufman & Canoles, based in Norfolk, Virginia. His expertise lies in intellectual property disputes, franchising, and high-stakes litigation.

Over the years, Stephen has built a strong reputation for successfully representing clients in federal and state courts across the country. He is particularly recognized for his ability to navigate the fast-paced “rocket docket” of the Eastern District of Virginia, having appeared in over 125 patent cases. Due to his trial success and professionalism, he has been inducted as a Fellow of the prestigious American College of Trial Lawyers.

Stephen earned his B.A. with high distinction from the University of Virginia in 1982. He then pursued his J.D. from the University of Virginia School of Law, graduating in 1985.

Throughout his career, Stephen has delivered strategic, results-driven representation in intellectual property and business litigation. He skillfully manages complex patent, copyright, trademark, and franchising disputes for corporations, startups, entrepreneurs, and established business owners. With a deep understanding of federal court practice and procedure, he is a trusted go-to lawyer in intellectual property law.

Stephen has held leadership positions in several legal organizations, including serving as the Past President of the Virginia State Bar’s Intellectual Property Law Section and the local Federal Bar Association. He has also served on the governing boards of various legal associations.

Recognized for his excellence, Stephen E. Noona has consistently been ranked as one of the best lawyers in America, Chambers USA, and Virginia Super Lawyers. His ability to secure favorable verdicts, including one of the largest patent infringement awards in the Eastern District of Virginia, demonstrates his legal expertise. His work continues to shape intellectual property law, ensuring fair outcomes for businesses and innovators.

Law Office Affiliations

• Chair of Litigation, Kaufman & Canoles PC
• President, Virginia Law Foundation
• Past President, Virginia State Bar, Intellectual Property Law Section
• Member, Virginia Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association
• Member, American Intellectual Property Law Association
• Past President, Federal Bar Association
• Member, Norfolk-Portsmouth Bar Association
• Member, Virginia Beach Bar Association

Licensed State

• Virginia

Education

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

Awards & Badges