There are many great Intellectual Property lawyers who are familiar with domain names and laws regarding domain names. I think there are few attorneys who I believe have domain name expertise. These domain name lawyers know the ins and outs of the law as it specifically pertains to domain names. They can be particularly helpful to domain name investors who might face legal challenges.
This morning, Nat Cohen posted a series of tweets about how attorneys with domain name expertise have helped his business over the years:
One of the key things I’ve learned from 20+ years as a domain name investor is that working with a good lawyer is critical. Domain name law is new, evolving and challenging. An inexperienced lawyer can easily make mistakes that turn a winnable position into a losing outcome. /1
— Nat Cohen (@domainarts) March 31, 2021
Telepathy is fortunate to have been represented by several of the top minds in domain name law, including Zak Muscovitch (@DNattorney) , Ari Goldberger (@esqwire), Jason Schaeffer (@TLDadvisor), John Berryhill (@Berryhillj) and David Weslow (@DavidWeslow). /2
— Nat Cohen (@domainarts) March 31, 2021
They have helped Telepathy navigate through many tricky legal situations and have protected Telepathy from numerous attacks on its assets – both through UDRP complaints and in the courts. I wouldn’t be where I am without them. /3
— Nat Cohen (@domainarts) March 31, 2021
I think it can be very helpful to get expert advice when responding to a legal threat, both real and perceived. Sometimes the expert advice may be to not even respond at all. Each situation is unique, and getting expert legal advice is essential.
Over the years, there have been many threads created on forums or posts on social media where people have asked legal questions that can be seen or responded to by anyone. Seeking expert legal advice on everything from cease and desist letters to ACPA litigation is the smart way to proceed.
Whether you need to have a customized domain name lease agreement drafted or are facing a legal threat, hiring an attorney with domain name expertise is a good idea.
What their fees? or they work pro bono?
I would also add that a good trademark/copyright attorney does not necessarily make a good domain name attorney, and vice versa. I am working with a great trademark attorney that I would likely not go to if I were to encounter domain name issues.