Acting as IP counsel for both national and international clients, Deborah assists with the many aspects of intellectual property portfolio management. She helps clients put systems in place – from the stage of invention to patent protection and enforcement – that maximize the value of their intellectual property. With creativity and insightful problem-solving skills that set her apart, Deborah pinpoints client needs and perspectives to ensure alignment with protective legal strategies.
Deborah advises clients in complex and global patent disputes involving chemistry, software, mechanical and biotech. She guides clients through all stages of U.S. litigation, including trial, and also represents clients in appellate matters, including before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
Over two decades of practice, Deborah has repeatedly identified pivotal IP strategies to achieve favorable results for her clients, whether on attack or on defense. On the defense side, Deborah works to reduce or eliminate her clients’ monetary exposure, including in one case by hundreds of millions of dollars. On attack, Deborah regularly develops damages theories that are both well-grounded legally and aggressive.
While at Barnes & Thornburg, Deborah spent an extended stay in Mannheim, Germany, where she worked for and advised an international client in U.S. litigation and patent matters.
Professional and Community Involvement
Member, U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana Local Rules Committee
Member, Indiana State Bar Association
Member, Indianapolis Bar Association
Member, German-American Lawyers' Association (DAJV)
Member, German American Chamber of Commerce
Member, German Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property
Board member, Indiana Health Industry Forum (IHIF)
Member, Plager Intellectual Property Inn of Court
Board member, Indiana Germany Business Council
Founding member, Indianapolis ChIPs Chapter
Former board member and former president, Women & Hi-Tech
Honors
Fellow, Litigation Counsel of America
The Best Lawyers in America, 2015-2025; Lawyer of the Year, 2018, 2020, 2022
Indiana Super Lawyers, 2016-2024
Chambers USA, 2022-2024
BTI Client Service All Star, 2020