Doak Horne

With a distinguished career spanning over a quarter of a century, Doak Horne has cemented his status as a pivotal figure in the realm of intellectual property within the bustling legal landscape of Gowling WLG's Calgary office. Not only does he boast dual registration as a patent agent in Canada and the United States, but his expertise is further enhanced by his accreditation as a professional engineer in Alberta and Ontario.

Horne's legal battles have seen him take the forefront in numerous high-stakes cases, including patent and trademark infringements, as well as copyright disputes. His hands-on approach extends beyond the courtroom to the intricate processes of patent, trademark, and industrial design prosecution, where he skillfully navigates the Canadian Intellectual Property Office and USPTO.

His adeptness is not confined to litigation; Doak is deeply involved in drafting and negotiating licensing agreements and advising on patent validity and usage rights, showcasing his versatile command over intellectual property matters.

A notable highlight of Horne's illustrious career includes leading Excalibre Downhole Tools Ltd. through a thicket of legal challenges, culminating in a significant victory that underscored his prowess in navigating complex intellectual property disputes.

Recognized consistently by Best Lawyers in Canada from 2006 through 2023 for his exceptional contributions to intellectual property law, Horne's accolades include being named "Lawyer of the Year in IP Law" for Western Canada in 2014, a testament to his profound impact and expertise in the field.

Horne's commitment to his profession extends beyond his legal practice; he is a familiar face at Canadian Bar Association and Insight seminars, where he shares his insights, and his written contributions enrich trade and professional publications, further evidencing his passion for intellectual property law.

Before his tenure at Gowling WLG's Calgary office, Horne contributed a dozen years to the firm's Toronto IP group, showcasing his long-standing dedication to the firm and the field of intellectual property. His unique background as a mechanical engineer, specializing in jet engine design for Pratt & Whitney Canada, adds a distinctive depth to his understanding of intellectual property, particularly in the technical and engineering sectors.

As a member of various professional associations, including the Canadian Bar Association, the Intellectual Property Institute of Canada, and both the Law Society of Alberta and Ontario, Horne is well-integrated into the legal and engineering communities, bridging the gap between these two worlds.

Doak Horne’s practice spans critical areas such as life sciences, food and beverage, IP litigation and strategy, and more, underscoring his broad expertise and the significant value he brings to clients navigating the complex waters of intellectual property law.