Overview

Edwin Getz is a trusted adviser to companies around the world on their most essential intellectual property and information technology matters — a role he’s held for 38 years. His practice spans global industries, including health care, consumer products, electronics, entertainment, financial services, aviation and transportation. Clients rely on Ed to manage their cross-border intellectual property portfolios, and he is a sought-after strategist on competitor disputes and litigation, innovation capture, and deals focused on leading-edge technology.

Technology Transactions and Counsel

Ed represents clients in sophisticated technology transactions and joint ventures. Through this work, he has become an authority on the development, acquisition and licensing of business-critical information technology assets, software and databases. He counsels clients on concerns related to the online distribution and sourcing of products and services, and he advises on information technology and website issues, including software and content licenses and distribution agreements, privacy and data security, website development agreements, network services and hosting agreements, system and infrastructure implementation agreements, and outsourcing arrangements.

International Experience

Born in South Africa, Ed is passionate about serving clients with an international scope. He advises U.S. companies entering the South African market, and he has also worked with companies in Japan and Europe, including managing litigation on their behalf.

Business Background

Prior to law school, Ed obtained an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and worked in the health care industry. As an attorney, he works with hospital systems, academic medical centers and medical practices on the intersection of technology innovation, intellectual property, computer software and patient care.

Personal Interests

Ed is an avid cyclist and world traveler. He enjoys reading historical biographies.

Related Legal Services

Credentials

Bar Admissions

Illinois

Court Admissions

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

Education

Northwestern University
M.B.A. (1982)

Carleton College
B.A. (1977)

Washington University School of Law
J.D. (1985)

Insights & Events

Leadership & Community

Pro Bono

Ed volunteers for the Lawyers for the Creative Arts, providing legal services for indigent artists, writers and performers.

Professional Associations

  • American Constitution Society — Board of Advisors
  • Lawyers for the Creative Arts — Board of Directors
  • Intellectual Property Law Association of Chicago
  • International Trademark Association
  • American Intellectual Property Law Association

Civic Activities

  • Evanston Scholars — Mentor to first-generation college applicant, 2018-present

Honors

  • Best Lawyers® — Trademark Law 2013-25
  • Who’s Who Legal — IP – Trademarks, 2023
  • Managing Intellectual Property — "IP Star," 2020-22
  • Illinois Super Lawyers — 2005-20