Gowling WLG partner Jennifer Morton is the recipient of the International Trademark Association (INTA)'s Volunteer Service Award in the Advancement of Trademark Law. The prestigious award is given to an INTA member who has gone above and beyond their regular duties as a volunteer and whose efforts during the year have led to the advancement of substantive trademark law and practice.

A Toronto-based partner, Morton is an active INTA member and current Chair of its Trademark Office Practices Committee and Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) Subcommittee. In 2017, she worked with CIPO's Trademarks branch to conduct a detailed review of the draft Canadian trademark regulations as part of the consultation process. Her leadership and commitment to working with the profession and the government throughout the process has led to the development of a strong, productive working relationship between the CIPO and the profession.

"It's very impressive that in just 30 days, Ms. Morton and her fellow subcommittee members compiled a 111-page response to Canada's new draft Trademark Regulations on behalf of INTA," said INTA President Joseph Ferretti. "This work has helped pave the pathway for INTA's continued engagement in the development of Canada's trademark laws and regulations."

Morton's receipt of this award marks a milestone achievement as a first win by anyone at Gowling WLG.

"Having seen firsthand Jennifer's commitment to the process, I can think of no one who is more deserving of this award," adds Robert A. MacDonald, IP partner and co-leader of the firm's global Intellectual Property Group.

Morton will be presented with the award at the INTA Leadership Meeting in Washington in early November.

With nearly 30 years of experience in Canadian trademark clearance, prosecution and opposition, she is an expert in a wide range of brand protection matters, including Canada's Trademarks Act and Canada's observance of the Madrid Protocol. Morton also specializes in the strategic management of international prosecution portfolios.

As the global association of trademark owners and professionals, INTA is dedicated to supporting trademarks and related intellectual property in order to protect consumers and promote fair and effective commerce. INTA's member organizations represent some 30,000 trademark professionals, including brand owners from major corporations as well as small and medium-sized enterprises, law firms and non-profit organizations.

Gowling WLG's internationally renowned, award-winning team of trademark professionals has a long-standing reputation as the go-to firm for organizations seeking trademark and branding advice. It is the largest group of its kind in Canada.