John Willis Stevens advises clients on intellectual property (IP) strategy, portfolio development, and technology‑driven transactions. He collaborates with companies across a range of industries to protect, manage, and commercialize IP assets while supporting broader business and growth objectives.
John Willis focuses his practice on patent and trademark prosecution, IP transactions, and portfolio management. He represents clients in matters before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and has experience supporting enforcement and dispute‑related proceedings across trial and administrative forums.
Drawing on a background in mechanical engineering, John Willis brings a practical understanding of technical subject matter to his work, helping clients navigate complex innovation‑driven issues and align legal strategy with business priorities.
His practice includes:
- IP Procurement & Portfolio Management – Preparing and prosecuting patent and trademark applications and developing strategies to build, maintain, and strengthen domestic and international IP portfolios.
- IP Transactions & Due Diligence – Supporting corporate transactions by evaluating IP assets, identifying potential risks, and advising on how those risks impact deal structure and valuation.
- Technology & Commercial Agreements – Drafting and negotiating a broad range of agreements involving IP and technology, including licensing, supply, development, confidentiality, and transfer arrangements.
- IP Disputes – Assisting with enforcement and contested matters involving patents, trademarks, and domain names across administrative and judicial forums.
Prior to joining Bass, Berry & Sims, John Willis was an associate in the Nashville offices of an international law firm and an IP boutique law firm. John Willis earned his law degree from Belmont University College of Law and his undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Alabama.