Harter Secrest & Emery LLP, a full-service business law firm with offices throughout New York, is pleased to announce that Anne F. Downey, a partner in the firm’s Intellectual Property practice group and Buffalo office, has been named as one of the Empire State Counsel Outstanding Pro Bono Volunteers by the New York State Bar Association (NYSBA).
The Empire State Counsel® Program recognizes attorneys who, during the prior year, performed 50 hours or more of pro bono legal services either through direct legal representation of a low-income/vulnerable individual, donating free legal services to an organization whose services are designed primarily to address the legal and other basic needs of persons of limited financial means, or providing free legal services to an organization dedicated to increasing the availability of legal services to vulnerable and/or low-income populations.
Recognized by the NYSBA as “a tireless advocate for asylum seekers,” Downey is credited for working tirelessly to helping those escaping political violence and war in Afghanistan and Ukraine through the organization JustCause. Nominations for Downey honor both her tenacity and empathy for her clients, many of whom are seeking asylum after working alongside U.S. forces fighting the War on Terror. Louise Spinelli of JustCause says Downey’s excellence is making an impact on the lawyers around her. “Anne’s leadership has raised the bar for her fellow partners, associates, and firms. As if Anne’s legal services weren’t enough, she also empathizes with the clients and finds financial resources to assist them.”
“Anne exemplifies the Outstanding Pro Bono Volunteer award as a long-time leader in the pro bono community,” said Craig S. Wittlin, Harter Secrest & Emery Managing Partner. “Her leadership in the community and at HSE has, and continues to be, truly exemplary as she changes the lives of her clients while inspiring those around her to do the same.”
Downey has more than 30 years of experience helping businesses and individuals develop, protect, and utilize intellectual property rights. She advises clients on the domestic and international protection of trademarks and copyrights and has significant experience managing global IP portfolios. Downey was recognized during the Empire State Justice for All Luncheon held during the NYSBA Annual Meeting in New York City on January 19, 2023.