On September 23, IAM and WTR recognized the Venable team in Copyright 1000: The World’s Leading Patent Professionals 2026. Through rigorous, market-leading research, the Copyright 1000 identifies the world's top copyright firms and professionals.
The firm was recognized at the silver level, and Justin Pierce, Josh Kaufman, Rebecca Liebowitz, Linda Zirkelbach, and Sean Phelan were highlighted as recommended individuals.
“For Venable’s DC team, copyright is as much about commercial opportunity as legal protection,” wrote IAM and WTR. “The practice has long been a trusted adviser to publishers, media companies, software businesses and creators looking to acquire, license and exploit valuable intellectual property, while remaining equally adept at resolving ownership disputes and infringement claims when they arise. Drawing on decades of experience across copyright, publishing, entertainment and digital media, the team helps clients navigate the commercial realities that underpin creative industries."
“Kaufman has spent much of his career helping clients turn creative works into successful businesses,” the Copyright 1000 guide noted. “As head of the firm’s Copyright and Licensing Group, he is equally comfortable negotiating sophisticated licensing arrangements, advising on e-commerce and software issues, or resolving contentious copyright disputes. His deep knowledge of the art world, coupled with decades of experience structuring copyright transactions, gives him a unique perspective on the commercial exploitation of intellectual property.”
The recognition continued: “Zirkelbach is a trusted adviser to publishers, media organizations and content owners, drawing on her previous in-house experience in the music and publishing industries to deliver practical, commercially focused advice. From copyright clearance and DMCA issues to publishing agreements and digital rights strategies, she helps clients bring creative works to market with confidence while remaining prepared to enforce those rights when necessary.”
“Pierce adds a strong international dimension to the practice. A former head of trademarks and brand protection at Sony Mobile, he combines global enforcement experience with sophisticated copyright counselling, helping clients develop anti-piracy, licensing and brand protection strategies that extend well beyond US borders,” wrote IAM and WTR.
“Liebowitz further strengthens the team through her work on copyright protection, licensing and brand launches, helping businesses build and safeguard valuable intellectual property from the outset.”
Click here to access the recognition.