Karreem Washington

"It always seems impossible until it's done." - Nelson Mandela

Karreem “Karr” Washington is a distinguished attorney whose practice centers on intellectual property prosecution and litigation, general commercial litigation, and contract law. Karr’s academic journey began at the University of Southern California, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences (Psychology) in 2007. His passion for the arts led him to the Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University, where he received his Master of Fine Arts in Acting in 2011. Recognizing the intersection between creativity and law, Karr pursued his Juris Doctor at Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, graduating in 2018 with a concentration in intellectual property law from its IP Law Program.

Having gained experience in both boutique law firms and IP focused mid-sized law firms in New York City, Karr has represented clients across a spectrum of industries, notably in consumer goods, technology, entertainment, and fashion. His diverse legal background is complemented by a unique perspective as a former performer, allowing him to bridge the worlds of art and commerce with rare insight.

Karr has built a formidable reputation for his expertise in intellectual property, having prosecuted over 100 trademarks and registered numerous photography and audio-visual copyrights. He has drafted and negotiated a wide array of commercial contracts, including music recording contracts, software development agreements, and trademark license agreements, demonstrating a keen ability to navigate complex legal landscapes.

His litigation experience encompasses representing clients before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board, drafting pleadings and motions, and achieving a 75% success rate in responding to Office Action refusals. Karr has also contributed to legislative initiatives, co-drafting a proposed law for a Fortune 500 company on artificial intelligence and entertainment.

Adept at issue spotting and simplifying complex legal issues, Karr has advised on the interplay between intellectual property, artificial intelligence, and data privacy laws. His work extends to securing licensing approvals from major corporations and managing international trademark portfolios, reflecting his global perspective and meticulous attention to detail.

Karr is a licensed attorney in both New York and Texas and is an active member of the New York City Bar Association, the New York State Bar Association’s Intellectual Property Law Section, and the American Bar Association’s Copyright Litigation Law Section. He was selected as a NY Super Lawyer Rising Star in 2024.

He is committed to continuous learning, and his multifaceted background as a legal advisor, performer, and entrepreneur positions him as a trusted counselor to business owners, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals navigating today’s evolving legal and technological landscapes.

Bar Admissions

• Texas 
• New York

Education

• Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law
  • J.D.
• Actors Studio Drama School at Pace University
  • M.F.A.
• University of Southern California
  • B.A. 

Professional Associations and Memberships

• New York City Bar Association, Member
• New York State Bar Association’s Intellectual Property Law Section, Member
• American Bar Association’s Copyright Litigation Law Section, Member