Lea Westman

About Lea Westman

Lea is an experienced patent attorney, specializing in chemical and materials science, medical devices, and the intersection of AI and life sciences. With over a decade of experience, she helps clients strategically grow and protect their patent portfolios through preparation, prosecution, and due diligence projects, including freedom-to-operate analyses and opinion work. Lea takes a multi-disciplinary, problem-solving approach to intellectual property strategy, guiding clients through complex challenges focusing on business impact and innovation at the junction of multiple technological areas.Lea’s passion for intellectual property law runs deep—her grandfather, a patent attorney with a 60-year career, founded two firms, inspiring her to forge her own path in the field. With a STEM background grounded in battery and fuel cell laboratory work, and a commitment to advocacy, she developed a strategic approach to IP law that blends technical insight with creative legal solutions.She works closely with clients to develop holistic IP strategies that extend beyond traditional patent prosecution, ensuring their innovations are protected while supporting long-term business growth. Lea has drafted and prosecuted thousands of patents, including complex cases involving chemical products, batteries, cosmetics, and machine learning applications. Her ability to navigate intricate technologies and legal frameworks helps clients maximize the value of their intellectual property portfolios.In her spare time, Lea enjoys teaching yoga and studying French.

Experience

1. Partner

   Merchant & Gould P.C.

   Jan 2025 — Present · New York, NY, US

   Proficient in complex IP analyses and global IP portfolio strategies. Prepares and prosecutes patents in chemical and materials science, medical device, biotech, and software fields, including but not limited to surgical devices, battery technologies, semiconductor packaging, cosmetics, sterilant, bioinformatics, and other product areas. Collaborates on due diligence including freedom-to-operate analyses and opinions.Extensive activity in business development and client management, advocacy for women in IP, and development of AI innovation.

Education

• Pepperdine University

  B.S., Chemistry

  2007 — 2011

• University of St. Thomas School of Law

  Doctor of Law - JD

  2012 — 2015

Skills

• Debate
• Blogging
• Research
• Legal Research
• Event Planning
• Microsoft Office
• Public Speaking
• Westlaw
• Microsoft Word
• Legal Writing
• Litigation