Vicky Smolyar

    Vicky Smolyar

    Senior Trademark & Copyright Counsel

    Hofstra University School of Law
    J.D.

    Hofstra University
    B.B.A., Business Law

    Vicky's Superpower: Comprehensive Brand & IP Protection

    Vicky has extensive experience advising entrepreneurs and emerging companies on both intellectual property and general corporate matters. Since 2015, she has built a practice centered on helping startups and SMBs navigate the complex legal landscape of building and scaling businesses. Her dual expertise in trademark and copyright law, combined with her corporate law background, allows her to provide comprehensive legal guidance to entrepreneurs across multiple industries.

    Vicky's intellectual property practice focuses on trademark and copyright prosecution, trade secret protection, brand protection strategies, and IP monetization for growing companies. Her corporate practice encompasses business formation and compliance, contract drafting and negotiation, marketing and advertising compliance, and general business counsel. Recognizing that successful entrepreneurs need comprehensive legal planning, Vicky also advises clients on estate planning and business succession strategies, helping business owners protect their personal and business assets while ensuring seamless transitions for future generations. Drawing from her experience as a serial entrepreneur, Vicky brings a unique business perspective to her legal practice, understanding both the legal and practical challenges her clients face.

    Before establishing her practice, Vicky worked in securities litigation at Bank of New York Mellon and Merrill Lynch, where she gained valuable experience in complex financial litigation. She also worked in the venture capital space and has operated her own businesses, providing her with firsthand insight into the entrepreneurial journey.

    Vicky is a member of the Houston Bar Association and the Woodlands Bar Association. She earned her B.B.A. in Business Law from Hofstra University and her law degree with honors and a concentration in Business Law from Hofstra University School of Law in 2012. She is licensed to practice in New York, New Jersey, and Texas.

    Experience

    • Senior Trademark Counsel
      Mousilli Legal Group
    • Securities Litigation
      Bank of New York Mellon
    • Securities Litigation
      Merrill Lynch

    Specialties

    • Trademark & Copyright Prosecution
    • Trade Secret Protection
    • Brand Protection Strategies
    • IP Monetization
    • Business Formation & Compliance
    • Contract Drafting & Negotiation
    • Marketing & Advertising Compliance
    • Estate Planning & Business Succession
    "Don't be intimidated by what you don't know. That can be your greatest strength and ensure that you do things differently from everyone else."— Sara Blakely

    Latest Insights by Vicky

    View Vicky's Articles

    Navigating the Complexities of International Trademark Registration

    Expanding globally? Trademark rights are territorial. Learn how to protect your brand internationally using the Madrid Protocol and direct filings.

    Vicky SmolyarVicky Smolyar
    3 months ago

    Bulletproofing Your Brand's Trademark

    Protecting your brand identity is crucial. Learn the essential steps to secure and maintain a robust trademark portfolio for your growing business.

    Vicky SmolyarVicky Smolyar
    3 months ago

    The Ultimate Guide to Trade Secret Protection for Tech Companies

    Not everything can or should be patented. Learn how to identify and protect your company's most valuable trade secrets from misappropriation.

    Vicky SmolyarVicky Smolyar
    3 months ago

    Business Formation 101: Choosing the Right Entity for Your Startup

    LLC or C-Corp? The entity you choose at formation has lasting implications for taxes, liability, and fundraising. We break down the pros and cons of each.

    Vicky SmolyarVicky Smolyar
    3 months ago

    Marketing Compliance: Avoiding Costly Advertising Mistakes

    Innovative marketing campaigns can drive growth, but they must comply with FTC regulations. Learn how to navigate advertising law and avoid deceptive practices.

    Vicky SmolyarVicky Smolyar
    3 months ago

    How to Monetize Your IP: Strategies for Growing Businesses

    Your intellectual property isn't just a defensive asset; it's a revenue generator. Explore strategies for licensing and monetizing your patents, trademarks, and copyrights.

    Vicky SmolyarVicky Smolyar
    3 months ago

    Contract Negotiation: 5 Red Flags to Watch Out For

    Don't sign on the dotted line until you've reviewed these critical contract clauses. Learn how to spot red flags and negotiate better terms for your business.

    Vicky SmolyarVicky Smolyar
    3 months ago

    Copyrights vs. Trademarks: What Startups Need to Know

    Understanding the difference between copyrights and trademarks is essential for protecting your intellectual property. We break down the key distinctions and when to use each.

    Vicky SmolyarVicky Smolyar
    3 months ago

    A New Era Begins

    Feras Mousilli is proud to announce the Formation of Mousilli Legal Group PLLC, created to serve you better.

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