Principals Karrie Wheatley and Whitney Reichel Represent Fish & Richardson at Prestigious 2024 Lead Counsel Summit 

Fish & Richardson is pleased to share that Principals Karrie Wheatley and Whitney Reichel recently participated in the 2024 Lead Counsel Summit, an immersive training opportunity designed to boost the representation of women in lead counsel roles in intellectual property litigation. 

The Lead Counsel Summit provided specialized training and support to women litigators, cultivating both substantive legal skills and leadership qualities necessary for lead counsel roles. Wheatley described the experience as "intense" and "exciting," highlighting the summit's focus on developing a lead counsel mindset. 

"The overarching takeaway was a mindset shift," said Wheatley. "The summit really drove home the idea that being lead counsel is about a mindset; it involves ownership, accountability, and assertiveness." 

Reichel echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the value of the small group setting and the presence of in-house counsel. “It was a wonderful experience because the content was exceptional and because it was such a small group of similarly situated women. The inclusion of in-house counsel as faculty offered a unique perspective on what it takes for clients to see you in a lead trial counsel role, which added additional depth to the experience.” 

Other key aspects of the summit included:

• Training on conveying authority through email, oral communication, and body language; 
• Presentations from experts on various topics, such as effective opening statements and team building; and 
• Moderated panels from some of the industry’s top lead trial counsel, sharing stories of their paths to success, as well as key practice and business development tips.   

One of the most impactful components of the summit was a one-minute pitch exercise. Participants were tasked with delivering a concise, compelling pitch to a panel of in-house counsel. This exercise was designed to simulate real-world scenarios where attorneys must quickly and effectively communicate their case strategy, key facts, and personal touch to potential clients or stakeholders. 

Reichel highlighted the significance of this exercise, noting that it added another realm of development to the experience. “Presenting in front of in-house counsel provided a unique opportunity to receive direct feedback from those who often make the final decisions on lead counsel appointments.” 

Wheatley also found this exercise particularly valuable, describing it as a mix of strategy, facts, personal touch, and selling.  

The summit organizers have set a bold objective: within two years, 25% of attendees should be in first chair roles. This call to action adds a layer of accountability to the training provided. 

Reflecting on advice for aspiring women litigators, Wheatley emphasized, "Make the ask. If you want it, go for it. In asking for it, assume that the answer is yes. Project confidence and authority but do so tactfully and gracefully." 

Fish is committed to advancing diversity in IP law and supporting the professional development of its attorneys. Wheatley and Reichel's participation in the Lead Counsel Summit aligns with the firm's ongoing efforts to promote excellence and inclusivity in the legal profession.