McKool Smith receives high marks in the 2026 edition of IAM Patent 1000: The World’s Leading Patent Practitioners, which notes that the firm has "formidable reputation for delivering standout results in high-stakes patent litigation."
Firm Rankings
McKool Smith is nationally recognized as a leader in intellectual property litigation and has been awarded Gold in Texas for patent litigation. The firm was described as a "premier trial boutique," earning recognition for its strategic approach to complex, bet-the-company disputes and its track record of securing major jury verdicts and precedent-setting victories.
Attorney Rankings
Austin Principal Josh Budwin earned recognition in Texas IP litigation. IAM describes Josh as a "key trial strategist" and "a valuable asset in multi-forum litigation."
Dallas Principal Warren Lipschitz is recognized for Texas IP Litigation. IAM notes that Warren "brings a strong track record in both trial and international enforcement strategies"
Dallas Principal Nicholas Mathews is recognized for Texass IP Litigation. IAM says that Nick is "noted for his work on complex standard-essential patent and FRAND-related disputes."
About the IAM Patent 1000
Compiled by a team of researchers from Intellectual Asset Management magazine, the IAM Patent 1000 is a guide to top patent practitioners as well as leading patent law firms in key jurisdictions. Based on interviews with in-house professionals and attorneys in private practice, the IAM Patent 1000 looks at the full range of patent services, from creation through management to dispute resolution.