After more than four decades in intellectual property law, our dear colleague and friend, Joan Herman has announced her retirement.

Joan’s path to IP began with a BS in Chemistry from Tulane University (’82), followed by her JD from Tulane Law School (’84). She began her legal career at a boutique IP firm in Dallas before relocating to Kansas City in 1986 to be closer to family. Over the years, she practiced with Linde Thompson and Shook, Hardy & Bacon, gaining deep experience in patent law.

In 2004, Joan joined Hovey Williams, returning to the boutique IP environment she had always appreciated, where she found her professional “home.” Over the years, her practice evolved to include both patent and trademark work, with the last decade focused primarily on trademark law.

Joan has been a trusted advisor to her clients, many of whom became lifelong friends. Her dedication, integrity, and depth of knowledge have made a lasting impact—not only on those she represented but on all of us who had the pleasure of working alongside her.

We are grateful for Joan’s many contributions to Hovey Williams and to the IP profession. While we will miss her presence in the office, we’re excited for her as she begins this next chapter.

Please join us in celebrating Joan’s remarkable career and wishing her all the best in retirement!