Stephen P. "Steve" Meleen

Stephen P. "Steve" Meleen: Leading Trademark Litigation Attorney in Austin

Stephen P. "Steve" Meleen is a highly experienced and recognized trademark attorney specializing in protecting brands and intellectual property rights. Since 1996, he has dedicated his career to handling all aspects of trademark law and unfair competition, with a primary focus on sophisticated trademark litigation. Mr. Meleen’s deep understanding of the legal landscape, combined with his proactive approach, makes him a trusted legal counsel for businesses seeking to safeguard their brand identity and competitive advantage. He consistently achieves favorable outcomes for his clients through strategic legal strategies and a meticulous attention to detail.

Beyond traditional trademark litigation, Mr. Meleen possesses significant expertise in copyright counseling and litigation, providing comprehensive support to clients navigating complex intellectual property matters. He is particularly adept at addressing the unique challenges presented by the digital age, offering invaluable guidance on internet-related trademark issues – a field in which he has become a recognized leader.

Mr. Meleen's commitment to innovation and intellectual property law extends beyond his courtroom work. He has been a driving force within the American Intellectual Property Law Association, serving as Chair of both the Trademark Internet Committee and the Trademark Litigation Committee. Furthermore, his leadership within the State Bar of Texas Intellectual Property Law Section, including serving as Chair of the Trademark Committee, underscores his dedication to advancing the field and shaping industry standards. These leadership roles demonstrate his profound understanding of current legal trends and his commitment to providing cutting-edge legal solutions.

Mr. Meleen’s academic background further strengthens his credentials. He earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) with honors from The University of Texas School of Law, where he was a member of the prestigious Texas Law Review and Order of the Coif. This rigorous legal training provided him with a solid foundation in legal principles and analytical skills, which he consistently applies to his practice. Prior to law school, he gained valuable experience as a nuclear engineer at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, specializing in reactor plant shielding for nuclear-powered submarines, aircraft carriers, and guided-missile cruisers. This unique background instilled in him a methodical and detail-oriented approach – essential qualities for success in complex legal disputes.

Recognized as a leading authority in trademark law, Mr. Meleen has consistently received top accolades and awards, solidifying his reputation as one of the most accomplished trademark attorneys in Texas. He has been named “Lawyer of the Year: Litigation – Intellectual Property” for Austin by Austin Business Monthly (2022, 2019, 2013), and “Lawyer of the Year: Trademark Law” for Austin multiple times (2019, 2013, 2013). His legal achievements have also been recognized nationally, including being recognized as a “Recognized: Litigation – Intellectual Property” and “Recognized: Trademark Law” by Chambers & Partners USA (2015, 2016) and inclusion in the “Top Seven Outstanding IP Litigators in Texas” by WTR 1000 – The World’s Leading Trademark Professionals (2015).

Mr. Meleen’s legal expertise is further validated by his inclusion in prestigious legal directories. He is listed in Best Attorney USA since 2011, and in the Trade Mark Expert Guide by Legal Media Group (2014-2016). He has also been recognized by Best Lawyers® by Woodward/White, Inc. (2013, 2011-2016), Managing Intellectual Property, and is a member of the Texas Super Lawyers® list by Thomson Reuters (2015-2017). His international recognition extends to World Trademark Review (2011-2016) and WTR 1000 – The World’s Leading Trademark Professionals (2011-2016), as well as Who’s Who Legal: The International Who’s Who of Trademark Lawyers (2007 – 2016), and the Law Business Research Ltd. (2007 – 2016) listing, and the Law Business Research Ltd. (2004 – 2007) listing.

Mr. Meleen’s commitment to excellence is reflected in his professional affiliations and accolades. He is recognized since 2011 in Best Attorney USA. He is based in Austin, Texas, and operates within the United States.

Education & Credentials:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.), The University of Texas School of Law, with honors (Member: Texas Law Review, Order of the Coif)
• Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard
• Commander’s Special Achievement Award, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, 1990

Practice Areas:

Litigation – Intellectual Property, Trademark Law

Awards:

• “Lawyer of the Year: Litigation – Intellectual Property,” Austin (2022)
• “Lawyer of the Year: Trademark Law,” Austin (2019, 2013)
• “Recognized: Litigation – Intellectual Property,” Recognized: Trademark Law, Special Focus: Trademark, Chambers & Partners USA (2015, 2016)

Affiliations:

• Trademark Internet Committee, American Intellectual Property Law Association
• Trademark Litigation Committee, American Intellectual Property Law Association
• State Bar of Texas Intellectual Property Law Section’s Trademark Committee