From Paralegal to IP Powerhouse by Leonne Theodore-John

In the Women’s IP World Annual 2025, Leonne Theodore-John, LLB, TEP, Partner at Nicholas John & Co., Saint Lucia, shares her remarkable journey from paralegal to leading intellectual property attorney. With over 30 years of legal experience, Leonne has been instrumental in shaping IP law in Saint Lucia, navigating landmark cases, legislative change, and regional advocacy.

A Career Built on Curiosity and Commitment

Leonne's introduction to IP law began in 1991 during a trademark filing that sparked her lifelong interest. That moment led to a legal career defined by continuous growth and impact, as she witnessed how IP law intersected with creativity, business, and innovation.

Driving Legislative Reform and Legal Success

Her experience spans the evolution of Saint Lucia's trademark laws from the 1957 Commercial Code to the modernised Trade Marks Act enacted in 2003. She also played a critical role in cases that clarified the distinction between company rights and registered trademarks.

As of December 2024, Leonne confirmed that long-anticipated patent legislation is expected to be enacted by mid-2025, a major step forward for IP protection in Saint Lucia. Real-World Impact: Cases That Matter

From opposing trademark misuse to defending geographic indications like "Champagne," Leonne has handled complex cases with implications far beyond Saint Lucia. Her strategic use of ADR and commitment to public education have also helped protect local entrepreneurs and build IP awareness in the community.

Championing IP Awareness in the Caribbean

Recognising the gaps in regional IP awareness, Leonne calls for consistent outreach, including events like World IP Day fairs and educational initiatives. Through her firm, she supports creators, artists, and entrepreneurs in understanding how IP rights can be monetised and protected. Regional and Global Leadership

Leonne represents Nicholas John & Co. at international conferences such as INTA, MARQUES, and the World IP Forum. She also champions Caribbean-wide harmonisation of IP laws, calling current fragmented systems costly and inefficient.

A Holistic Legal Approach

Leonne’s expertise isn’t limited to IP. Her work also includes succession planning, trust law, and offshore services, often integrating IP into larger legal strategies. This positions her firm as a one-stop legal partner for clients with broad portfolios.

Advice to the Next Generation

To aspiring women in law, Leonne encourages resilience and vision. "IP is the fastest-growing area of law and offers incredible potential," she says. Her own path is a testament to what can be achieved with determination and purpose.

Conclusion

Leonne Theodore-John’s journey is a powerful reminder that lasting impact in intellectual property comes not only from legal expertise but from advocacy, education, and an unwavering commitment to empowering others. Her reflections offer valuable lessons for legal professionals and policymakers working to shape a more inclusive, strategic, and innovation-driven IP landscape in the Caribbean and beyond.

Read the full article in Women’s IP World Annual 2025, essential reading for legal professionals, policy-makers, and innovators who are shaping the future of Caribbean IP with purpose, insight, and strategy.

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