In a significant development for both the legal and historical preservation communities, The Patent Baron, a specialized intellectual property law firm, has announced its relocation to the historic McPherson Mansion in Howell, Michigan. This move, which took place on November 12, 2024, marks a new chapter for the firm and contributes to the ongoing preservation of one of Howell's most iconic landmarks.
The Patent Baron, led by founder and lead attorney J. Baron Lesperance, has been a stalwart in intellectual property protection for over two decades. The firm's expertise spans various aspects of intellectual property law, including trademark registration, trade secret protection, copyright licensing, and infringement litigation. This relocation is part of a broader brand expansion initiative, signaling the firm's growth and commitment to serving its clientele in an enhanced professional setting.
The choice of the McPherson Mansion as the new office location is particularly noteworthy. Built in 1915, the mansion was originally the home of Robert Bruce McPherson, a prominent Howell businessman. The property, once a mint farm for perfumeries, still retains a subtle mint scent, adding a unique character to the office environment. Local lore suggests that the mansion may be haunted and harbors buried treasure, including silver dollars from the 1700s in its pond, further adding to its mystique and historical significance.
Lesperance emphasized the importance of this move, stating, "As a local law firm, we believe in reinvesting in our community. Preserving the historic McPherson Mansion is important to remembering the history of Howell, and as professional tenants in the building, we're doing our part to help maintain this iconic building." This sentiment underscores the firm's dedication not only to legal excellence but also to community engagement and historical preservation.
The relocation of The Patent Baron to such a historically significant site carries broader implications for the local community and the legal profession. It demonstrates a model of how businesses can contribute to historical preservation while simultaneously expanding their services. This approach could inspire other firms to consider similar moves, potentially leading to increased preservation efforts of historical buildings across the country.
For the legal industry, particularly in the realm of intellectual property, this move represents a unique blend of tradition and innovation. The Patent Baron's new office in a building steeped in history serves as a metaphor for the firm's work in protecting intellectual property – preserving the past while fostering future innovations.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by approximately 40 people including members of the Hartland, Huron Valley, and Howell Chambers of Commerce, showcased the community's support for this initiative. Attendees were given a tour of the mansion, including its reportedly haunted areas, providing an opportunity to learn about Howell's rich history.
As The Patent Baron settles into its new home, the firm continues to offer its specialized services in intellectual property protection. With Lesperance's background as an inventor and patent holder himself, the firm brings a unique perspective to its practice, understanding firsthand the value of intellectual property to small business owners and inventors.
This relocation represents more than just a change of address for The Patent Baron. It symbolizes a commitment to community, history, and the future of intellectual property law. As the firm begins this new chapter in the historic McPherson Mansion, it sets a precedent for how businesses can contribute to their communities while growing and evolving in their respective fields.
