View All NewsWard and Smith and Four Attorneys Recognized in World Trademark Review’s 2026 Edition of WTR1000
February 5, 2026
Ward and Smith, P.A.
Ward and Smith, P.A., and four of its intellectual property attorneys have been recognized in the 2026 edition of World Trademark Review’s WTR1000: The World’s Leading Trademark Professionals.
The annual guide identifies leading trademark firms and practitioners worldwide based on independent market research, peer feedback, and client input.
Ward and Smith again earned firmwide recognition for its trademark practice, reflecting the depth of its experience in trademark strategy, portfolio management, prosecution, and enforcement. The publication noted that the firm “is packed with business-savvy attorneys who recognise the commercial value of creating and maintaining strong brands,” awarding the firm a Silver Band ranking.
The following Ward and Smith attorneys were individually recognized in the 2026 edition of WTR1000:
Arthur J. DeBaugh earned a Gold Band ranking. A North Carolina State Bar Board Certified Specialist in Trademark Law, Arthur was recognized for his “strong communication and analytical skills, coupled with honesty, integrity, and experience in trademark law and the USPTO.” He brings more than three decades of experience advising clients on trademark clearance, registration, enforcement, and brand protection strategies, informed by his background as a former in-house counsel.
Angela P. Doughty, CIPP/US, AIGP, FIP, earned a Silver Band ranking for being “personable and efficient.” Angela advises clients at the intersection of trademark law, technology, artificial intelligence, and data privacy, delivering business-focused IP strategies that support innovation and growth. A Board Certified Specialist in Trademark Law and the firm’s Director of Innovation, she is recognized for guiding clients through complex trademark, licensing, and technology matters.
Erica B. E. Rogers earned a Silver Band ranking and was recognized as a recommended “Next Generation” attorney. A Board Certified Specialist in Trademark Law, Erica assists clients with trademark prosecution, portfolio management, dispute resolution, and online brand enforcement. She also advises on copyright and licensing matters and leads the firm’s Name, Image, and Likeness Practice Group.
Joseph A. Schouten earned a Silver Band ranking. Clients noted that he is “an experienced litigator who expertly represents his clients in the courtroom,” describing him as “reliable, meticulous, and very knowledgeable.” Joe focuses his practice on intellectual property litigation, representing clients in trademark, patent, and copyright disputes in state and federal courts and before administrative agencies.
The WTR1000 is the definitive global guide to leading trademark practitioners and firms. Rankings are determined through extensive independent research, including peer and client interviews, and identify firms and individuals who consistently deliver exceptional results in trademark strategy, prosecution, enforcement, and litigation. The guide spans 88 jurisdictions worldwide, receives more than 300,000 views annually, and is widely relied upon by brand owners and legal decision-makers at leading global organizations.
To learn more about the WTR1000 and its methodology, visit World Trademark Review’s website.