Intellectual Property law is probably the most "international" field of law in the world. It requires that the practicing attorneys to be able to provide their clients counsel on various jurisdictions, and therefore, demands close and tight relationships with non-domestic associates.

I think it is one of the things that make IP one of the greatest specialties for attorneys. From time to time it is just great to leave the regular work and meet with friends on a good coctail reception.

 Which are the international organizations that an IP practitioner should consider joining if he is looking ? There are many, and I assume anyone has his own taste. I will name a few, and you are welcome to comment and suggest others.

INTA (Since: 1878) - The International Trademark Association (INTA) is probably the most important IP organization in the world. Although focused mainly on trademark law, INTA's immense impact on the IP world is based, among other things, on the success of its largest event - the annual meeting. Around 8,000 trademark professionals are attending this event every year, making it the most visited intellectual property event in the world and the best networking opportunities for IP professionals.

AIPPI (since: 1897)- The International Association for the Protection of Intellectual Property (AIPPI) is probably the most important organization for intellectual property practitioners focusing mostly on patent law. This organization also holds an extremely popular annual event, which is highly recommended.

 AIPLA (Since: 1897) - The American Intellectual Property Law Association (AIPLA) is an extremely important organization, which enjoys more than 17,000 members. Most of the attendees on its events are US practitioners.

FICPI (Since: 1906) - The Federation International des conseils en Propriete industrielle (FICPI) aims to represent the interests of Intellectual Property attorneys in private practice. With members from 86 countries and well attended events, this is one of the most important organizations in the world.

LES (Since: 1965) - closing are list is the Licensing Executives Society (LES), an organization not directly dedicated to intellectual property law, but very important for intellectual property lawyers. LES grew fast to more than 6,000 members around the world. Well-attended events are held annualy.

 Those are my favourites. I will be happy to hear your opinion about my favourite organizations, and yours.

I will personally be participating on INTA berlin this year, and will be happy to meet relatip.com members! 

Have fun networking!