Partner Emeritus, Wilson Sonsini
Palo Alto, CA
John Slafsky practiced intellectual property and media law for over three decades, first in New York and then at an international law firm in Silicon Valley.
John held various leadership positions at his 1000+ attorney firm, where he specialized in trademark, copyright and advertising law. He advised businesses and nonprofits regarding advertising and marketing campaigns; the selection and protection of trademarks; copyright clearance; the transfer and licensing of intellectual property; Internet liability; and unfair competition. He also litigated cases in federal and state courts.
John has a history of pro bono legal service, particularly representing nonprofits focused on education and the arts. He was recognized by the State Bar of California for exceptional contributions of time and expertise on behalf of low-income clients, and received his firm’s highest award for combining excellence in legal practice with commitment to community service.
John is a native New Englander. As a teenager, he wanted to attend Stanford but his parents told him if he did, he’d never want to leave. He graduated from Princeton and received his law degree from New York University. He worked for three years in the U.S. Senate. He eventually made it to California, attended countless Stanford sports and cultural events, and relishes his time on campus.
John enjoys the outdoors, sports, guitar, travel, and a good burrito. His wife Amy is a veteran television news producer who pivoted to support elementary school students in local public schools. They have two young-adult children who live out of state.