In 2006, Lou Pirkey, Bill Barber, and Steve Meleen launched Pirkey Barber with a clear vision: build a firm dedicated to exceptional client service, collaboration, and excellence in intellectual property law.
The firm’s roots, however, stretch back much further. Long before intellectual property law became a widely recognized practice area, Lou helped establish one of Austin’s first dedicated IP practices, helping build a nationally respected trademark practice from the heart of Texas. Over the decades that followed, he and his colleagues assembled a team of talented lawyers who shared a common belief: if you bring together outstanding people and do exceptional work, clients will find you.
When Pirkey Barber opened its doors on June 19, 2006, it began as a small trademark boutique formed by Lou, Bill, and Steve after years of practicing together. They were joined by longtime paralegal Eric Olson, whose dedication and institutional knowledge helped provide continuity during the firm’s earliest days, and shortly thereafter by Susan Hightower, the firm’s first associate, who would go on to become a partner before later serving as both a Trademark Trial and Appeal Board Administrative Judge and a United States Magistrate Judge.
What began as a small team in Austin has grown into a nationally recognized firm serving some of the world’s most innovative companies. Along the way, the firm has expanded its capabilities, welcomed talented attorneys and professionals from across the country, and built lasting relationships with clients, colleagues, and friends who have helped shape its success.
While much has changed over the past two decades, the values that guided the firm’s founding continue to define Pirkey Barber today. A commitment to outstanding client service, a collaborative culture, and investment in people remain at the heart of the firm.
As part of our 20th anniversary celebration, we invited members of the Pirkey Barber team to reflect on the firm’s journey, culture, and future. In the video below, founders Lou Pirkey and Bill Barber share their perspectives alongside other attorneys from across the firm, including Anna Kuhn, Travis Wimberly, Alicia Morris Groos, Michael Metteauer, Steve Meleen, Jered Matthysse, and Wendy Larson.
Together, their reflections offer a glimpse into the relationships, values, and sense of purpose that continue to make Pirkey Barber a special place to practice law.
No five-minute video can capture every chapter of a 20-year journey, but we hope it provides a meaningful look at the people behind our firm and the culture they have helped create.
We are grateful to everyone who has contributed to Pirkey Barber’s success over the past two decades. As our firm continues to evolve, we remain focused on the opportunities, challenges, and relationships that will shape the chapters still to come.