Pinar R.O.Smart, Passionate, and Fearless in Intellectual Property Law
Michelle Ciotola is a powerhouse when it comes to intellectual property law. Sharp, passionate, and incredibly fearless in addressing topics many shy away from, Michelle has made her mark as a leading expert in trademarks, AI, tech, the Metaverse, and more. Whether it’s answering complex questions or providing strategic advice, she’s the person people turn to for guidance in these ever-evolving fields.
What separates Michelle is her deep knowledge and ability to make complicated legal concepts accessible and manageable for businesses. When it comes to protecting brands, navigating AI issues, or exploring the Metaverse, Michelle brings a unique blend of intelligence and approachability that few in her field can offer.
She didn’t come into this field by accident. After studying history and political science, she pursued law to open doors for herself and, in the process, became the first in her family to go to college and earn a degree. It was a leap of faith, and she’s never looked back. Her commitment to tackling intellectual property law with curiosity and resilience led her to specialize in trademark and copyright law, fields she’s deeply passionate about.
Her passion isn’t just for the law but empowering the people behind the ideas. “What drives me,” Michelle says, “are the people—innovators and business owners—who are building something truly their own.” Working closely with these visionaries, she finds inspiration daily, whether helping them secure trademarks or providing strategic legal counsel as they build businesses.
Since AI is booming, intellectual property issues are growing, and tech-driven industries are struggling with copyright problems, Michelle is the go-to person for companies looking to protect their intellectual assets. Her ability to foresee the challenges and opportunities in emerging tech like AI and the Metaverse allows her clients to stay ahead of the curve.
Michelle’s leadership style is profoundly collaborative and inclusive. Her goal isn’t just to excel herself but to create a team of leaders, especially encouraging women to rise in leadership roles in industries traditionally dominated by men. She empowers her team by giving them ownership of their tasks, and her philosophy is rooted in creating a collaborative space where everyone can contribute and thrive.
As a woman in leadership, Michelle has faced her share of challenges, but her confidence is unshakable. With her experience comes wisdom, and one of her greatest lessons for others is not to overcommit, to focus on what matters most, and to keep pushing boundaries. Her success story, advancing from associate to partner, speaks volumes about her passion, perseverance, and dedication.
One of the unique things about Michelle is how she balances her professional life with her personal. She has plenty to juggle with a 14-year-old son, a 12-year-old daughter, an 8-year-old son and a one year old baby boy. But she credits her kids as her greatest inspiration—pushing her to be the best version of herself at work and home. “My kids drive me,” she says, “I want to show my daughter and my sons that a woman can excel in her career while being a great mother.”
She’s also quick to point out that her husband had a role in guiding her career path, suggesting she explore intellectual property law early on. From that suggestion, she discovered her love for the field and made it her own, constantly staying on top of trends like AI and the Metaverse, which are reshaping the landscape of intellectual property law.
Michelle’s success isn’t just about her professional skills and ability to connect with people and empower them. “Be confident in who you are,” she advises young women. She had to learn it herself, as impostor syndrome was a real challenge in the early stages of her career. She tells others, “Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and say yes to opportunities that push you further.”
Throughout her career, Michelle has proven that success isn’t about doing it alone; it’s about building a community. She actively mentors other women, advocating for them in rooms where they aren’t present and encouraging them to take on leadership roles. She creates an environment where everyone’s voice is heard, intentionally fostering collaboration and growth.
While talking with Michelle, Debra and I were constantly amazed by her intelligence, generosity in sharing her knowledge, and authentic leadership. Her ability to make others feel seen and supported is genuinely inspiring. She navigates complex professional challenges gracefully and always finds a way to empower those around her. Her colleague Jessica Lister, Director of Marketing at Cantor Colburn, describes her as “open to new ideas and unafraid to try new things. She says ‘yes’ when others hesitate or refuse, tackling every challenge with optimism and determination. Michelle connects with people, and she gets a tremendous amount done.”
Michelle Ciotola’s story proves the power of confidence, community, and perseverance. Her journey from a curious student to a trusted intellectual property law expert proves that women can break barriers and achieve incredible things when they support each other. Whether you’re starting your career or deep into it, Michelle’s story offers valuable leadership, mentorship, and personal growth lessons.
If you need guidance on AI, trademarks, or how to protect your brand in this rapidly evolving world, look no further than Michelle. She’s the expert you want by your side, whether you’re launching a new business or safeguarding intellectual property in the tech-driven world we live in.
She’s passionate, driven, and brilliant regarding topics many people are away from. From trademarks to the Metaverse, Michelle is the person you want to go to if you need advice on protecting your brand in this changing world.
However, what truly stands out about Michelle is her compassion and ability to mentor others, especially women. She empowers the people around her to improve, grow, and step into their leadership roles. She’s not just about personal success—she’s about uplifting everyone she works with and creating a team where everyone can shine.
For any woman who needs inspiration, especially in law, her story will remind you of the power of community, confidence, and the courage to step outside your comfort zone.
Interview: Pinar Reyhan Ozyigit
Photos: Debra Chute
“Don’t be afraid to say “yes” to opportunities that push you out of your comfort zone. It’s scary at first, but the growth that comes with it is worth it.
How would you describe yourself? Who is Michelle?
That’s always a tough question! Instead of answering myself, I asked my 12-year-old daughter to describe me. She said, “You’re an inspiring leader with a hard work ethic and a big inspiration.” I’ll take that.
What drives you both personally and professionally?
My kids, for sure. I want to be a positive role model, showing my daughter and sons that a woman can thrive in her career. My children keep me grounded and motivated to excel both at home and work.
What inspired you to become a lawyer?
I’ve always liked challenges. After studying history and political science, law school seemed to open the most doors. I became the first in my family to pursue a law degree. It was about pushing myself to see how far I could go.
What led you to focus specifically on intellectual property and trademark law?
Funny enough, my husband actually suggested it. I wasn’t sure what type of law I wanted to pursue, but after doing some internships, I knew I didn’t want criminal or family law. My husband mentioned intellectual property, and I ended up falling in love with it, especially trademark and copyright law.
What has been the most inspiring part of your journey, both in law and life?
Working with people who are driven and creative. I get to help people build their businesses, and that energy inspires me. Plus, for some reason, this field attracts genuinely cool and kind people. I’m lucky to be surrounded by great clients and colleagues.
What has been your biggest challenge, and how did you overcome it?
My biggest challenge is learning to say “no” and not overcommit. I tend to take on too much, which can be overwhelming. I’ve had to learn to focus on what truly matters and do those things well.
How do you see AI and the Metaverse influencing intellectual property cases?
These are big areas right now, especially with trademarks. It’s about being forward-thinking enough to anticipate the legal issues that will arise. For example, how do we protect our clients’ trademarks in the Metaverse? With AI, it’s important to know how to use it effectively and ethically to enhance our practice.
What trends are you seeing in intellectual property law?
AI is a huge trend. It’s being used for trademark clearance, preparing goods and services, and making the legal process more efficient. Another trend is the increase in trademark filings, which makes it harder to clear marks. We also see longer waiting periods at the USPTO, which affects companies’ ability to launch new brands quickly since there is always some level of uncertainty while a trademark application is moving through the USPTO.
What advice would you give women-led businesses about protecting their intellectual property and brands?
Start early. Anticipate issues before they arise. If you’re operating online, make sure you have an enforcement strategy in place before problems occur. You don’t want to lose your brand recognition because you didn’t protect it in time.
What do you think is the biggest mistake businesses make when it comes to trademarks?
Many businesses pick brands that aren’t strong enough. They tend to go for descriptive names that don’t offer enough legal protection. The best trademarks are those that are distinctive and creative because they provide broader protection and are easier to defend.
How do you stay updated in this rapidly changing world of tech and intellectual property?
Conferences and newsletters are my go-to. I’m always reading articles and attending events focused on AI, trademarks, and other emerging areas. It’s about continuously learning to stay ahead of the curve.
What advice would you give young women seeking leadership roles in law?
Be confident in who you are. Impostor syndrome is real, and I struggled with it myself. Also, don’t be afraid to say “yes” to opportunities that push you out of your comfort zone. It’s scary at first, but the growth that comes with it is worth it.
What’s your approach to leadership, especially as a woman?
It’s all about creating a collaborative environment. I believe in empowering my team by giving them ownership of their tasks. I also focus on creating more leaders, especially women, because I think it’s crucial to uplift each other.
Wonderful. How about your leadership philosophy?
Creating space for more leaders is important to me. I focus on listening to my team, encouraging collaboration, and making sure everyone feels empowered to contribute. Leadership is about lifting others up, not just focusing on your own success.
How do you handle conflicts?
Open dialogue is crucial. You have to listen and understand where the other person is coming from. A lot of conflicts stem from misunderstandings, so getting to the root of the issue helps resolve them.
What role does self-advocacy play in career advancement for women, and how can they apply this skill effectively?
Self-advocacy is hard! I’m great at advocating for my team, but advocating for myself has always been a challenge. One way I’ve done it is by having open conversations with my mentors or managers about my goals and asking for their guidance on how to achieve them.
Most importantly, you started your career as an associate in 2006 and worked your way up to becoming a partner. What’s the secret behind that success? Was it passion, perseverance, or something else that fueled your journey?
Open communication, seeking feedback, and having mentors who advocated for me. Mentorship has been key in my journey, and I encourage young women to seek out mentors who will support their growth. I love my company and our team, and we are truly the best team. I am fortunate to be in the right place, which is very supportive; we have the best people with incredible skills.
Keep a “kudos folder” – positive feedback, accolades, put it all in a folder. When you are having a hard day or suffering from imposter syndrome, go back to the folder and remind yourself that of what you have to offer.
Can you share some critical recommendations for young lawyers aspiring to work in intellectual property law? Specifically, what are five DOs they should follow to succeed in this field and five DON’Ts they should avoid to steer clear of common pitfalls?
5 DO’s
- Build a strong foundation in IP Law – this should be obivous, but be able to talk the talk, know key updates and trends in the law. Take relevant courses, attend webinars and seminars.
- Find a mentor and be a mentor – find someone in the industry that can provide guidance and support. Be a mentor to law students and others looking to enter this field. Giving back is rewarding and it lets you reflect on your own successes and failures.
- Network – get involved in key industry organizations, make connections within the industry. Not only is networking crucial to your future success, but it can be invigorating and a reminder of why you are doing what you do.
- Value your support staff – paralegals provide guidance and insight that will allow you to excel in your career. You can’t succeed without
- Keep a “kudos folder” – positive feedback, accolades, put it all in a folder. When you are having a hard day or suffering from imposter syndrome, go back to the folder and remind yourself that of what you have to offer.
5 DON’Ts
- Don’t be afraid to say yes and step outside your comfort zone – co-author articles, attend networking events.
- Don’t downplay or undervalue your capabilities – find a way to graciously tout your successes.
- Don’t forget to keep your network outside of the industry – keep in touch with college and law school contacts – they can be invaluable resources for referrals.
- Don’t be afraid to have the conversations and ask for feedback – make your goals clear and advocate for yourself. Be ready to listen to constructive feedback. But be considerate of time, and be clear in your objective.
- Don’t be afraid to say no – but don’t let no be your default.
The Lasts of Michelle Ciotola
The last book/books: The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Last TV Show or Movie: Emily in Paris probably
Last travel: Stockholm, Sweden
Favorite food: Anything Asian, a good farm to table, cheese
Favorite dessert: Cheesecake, meringues…
Favorite quote: The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams” -Eleanor Roosevelt
Favorite places in the world: I love exploring and eating. But I also love being anywhere my family is.
