Zareefa Burki Flener

Zareefa Burki Flener is a nationally recognized intellectual property attorney known for her precision in managing complex patent and trademark portfolios. With dedication and technical insight, she leads clients through IP strategy and advises businesses from early-stage innovators to multinational corporations.

Zareefa holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a double major in Psychology. She earned her Master of Science degree with Distinction from Loyola University of Chicago—an honor never previously awarded. She later completed her Juris Doctor and has since earned accolades, including IAM Patent 1000’s Recommended for Prosecution and Managing IP’s Top 250 Women in IP.

Zareefa’s work spans biotech, electrical, mechanical, and pharmaceutical technologies. She regularly handles due diligence, contract drafting, and M&A-related IP work. Her background in laboratory research, focused on HIV pathology and human genome mapping, gives her rare insight into complex scientific matters that inform her legal strategies.

Zareefa’s patent and trademark prosecution includes work in emerging fields such as stem cells, immunology, biochemical processes, and cannabis. Her support in cannabis-related IP protection has positioned clients for growth in a rapidly evolving industry, particularly in trademark and patent matters tied to branding and biotech.

Zareefa practiced for nearly a decade at a prestigious global firm, where she became the first female partner in one of its offices. Her consistent client care, clarity in communication, and legal excellence have earned her continued recognition, including Super Lawyers and Managing IP’s IP Stars honors from 2014 through 2018.

Zareefa Burki Flener continues to help clients build, protect, and leverage their intellectual property assets worldwide. With a mix of legal excellence, scientific depth, and business practicality, she delivers IP counsel that supports innovation and growth in any market.

Law Office Affiliations

• Managing & Founding Partner, Flener IP & Business Law
• Member, Illinois Bar Association

Licensed State

• Illinois

Education

• Chicago-Kent College of Law, Illinois Institute of Technology
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Loyola University of Chicago
  Master of Science (MS)
• University of Kentucky
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges