With more than 25 years of trial experience, John Shaw is one of Delaware’s most respected litigators, known for his strategic clarity, courtroom instincts, and leadership.
John has served as lead counsel in dozens of high-stakes patent and commercial cases. Clients trust him to navigate complex disputes with a rare combination of insight, efficiency, and sound judgment.
Overview
John regularly serves as lead and Delaware counsel for companies and national firms litigating complex IP and commercial matters. His deep understanding of the local judiciary and court procedures helps clients and co-counsel avoid missteps and gain strategic advantage. He is frequently brought in early to help shape case strategy and has a reputation for cutting through complexity to focus on what moves a case forward.
Clients praise John for staying “calm under pressure” and his “excellent substantive knowledge of patent law and civil procedure, as well as impressive advocacy and strategic thinking skills.” Nothing that he “is always willing to go the extra mile to get the job done.”
In addition to his Delaware practice, John has led litigation teams in major jurisdictions across the country and has tried more than 30 jury and bench trials. He is known for being a steady, practical voice at the table—and a strong advocate in the courtroom.
Bar Admissions
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Delaware
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Pennsylvania
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United States Patent and Trademark Office
Education
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J.D., University of Pittsburgh, magna cum laude, Law Review
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B.S., Engineering Science, Penn State University, with honors and high distinction
Honors/Awards
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Law Clerk, The Honorable Murray M. Schwartz, United States District Court for the District of Delaware
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AV-Rated by Martindale-Hubbell since 2006
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Recognized in Chambers & Partners USA since 2006
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Past-Vice President for the Third Circuit, Federal Bar Association
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Past-President, Delaware Chapter of the Federal Bar Association
Fun Fact
John has always been an early adopter—he may have been the first attorney to present evidence at trial using an iPad back in 2010. Outside of work, he’s passionate about conservation and spends his free time riding horses and exploring the backcountry.


