Foley & Lardner LLP: Marcus W. Sprow

When navigating complex legal matters, especially those involving intricate areas like intellectual property, energy, or manufacturing, having a knowledgeable and experienced legal professional by your side is paramount. For residents and businesses across Michigan, a name that stands out in these specialized fields is Marcus W. Sprow, a partner at Foley & Lardner LLP. With a deep understanding of Michigan’s unique industrial landscape and a commitment to serving local clients, Marcus W. Sprow and the team at Foley & Lardner LLP offer a professional and reliable legal resource right here in the heart of Detroit. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of their services, location, and why they are an excellent choice for your legal needs in Michigan.

Understanding the legal landscape can be daunting, but with a firm like Foley & Lardner LLP, you gain access to a wealth of expertise. Marcus W. Sprow, in particular, is not just a lawyer; he's a registered patent attorney with a robust background in materials science engineering. This unique blend of legal acumen and technical knowledge allows him to approach complex cases with a comprehensive perspective, especially those at the intersection of law and innovation. For Michigan's thriving automotive, manufacturing, and energy sectors, this specialized expertise is incredibly valuable. They understand the challenges and opportunities specific to our state, making them a truly local and relevant legal partner. Whether you're a burgeoning startup with a groundbreaking invention, an established manufacturer looking to protect your innovations, or an energy company navigating regulatory frameworks, having an attorney who speaks your industry's language can make all the difference. Their dedication extends beyond just legal representation; it’s about providing strategic counsel that helps clients achieve their business objectives while mitigating risks.

For Michigan locals seeking legal assistance, accessibility is key. Foley & Lardner LLP's Detroit office, where Marcus W. Sprow leads the Intellectual Property practice, is strategically located at 500 Woodward Ave STE 2700, Detroit, MI 48226, USA. This prime downtown Detroit location offers convenient access for individuals and businesses throughout the Metro Detroit area and beyond. Situated in a central business district, the office is easily reachable whether you're commuting from the suburbs, traveling from other parts of Michigan, or coming from within the city. The central location in Detroit also means proximity to various transportation options, making it simple to schedule consultations and meetings. Being in the heart of Detroit allows them to be deeply integrated into the city's business and legal community, fostering strong connections that benefit their clients. They are part of the fabric of our city, committed to its growth and the success of its residents and businesses.

Foley & Lardner LLP, with Marcus W. Sprow’s leadership in the Detroit office, offers a comprehensive range of legal services tailored to the needs of individuals and businesses, particularly focusing on areas crucial to Michigan's economy. Their expertise spans various technical disciplines and legal complexities.

• Intellectual Property Law: This is a core strength, with Marcus W. Sprow being a registered patent attorney. Services include:
  • Patent prosecution and litigation (both utility and design patents)
  • Trademark and copyright protection
  • IP due diligence for mergers, acquisitions, and investments
  • Licensing and technology transfer agreements
  • Intellectual property asset valuations
  • Counseling on IP rights and obligations under U.S. government funding contracts
• Energy & Infrastructure: Expertise in the evolving energy landscape, including:
  • Energy transition and renewable energy projects (e.g., solar, wind, hydrogen)
  • Oil & gas matters
  • Power generation and transmission
  • Regulatory compliance in the energy sector
• Manufacturing Industry Legal Services: Addressing the unique legal needs of the manufacturing sector, including:
  • Automotive systems and components
  • Industrial manufacturing processes and technologies
  • Supply chain management legal issues
  • Product liability and regulatory compliance
• Electrified Mobility: Given Michigan's automotive prominence, they offer specialized services related to:
  • Batteries and energy storage systems (lithium-ion, nickel-metal-hydride, lead-acid, metal-air batteries, capacitors, fuel cells)
  • Vehicle electrification technologies
  • Integrated circuit design and manufacturing
• Business Law: Broader business legal support, including:
  • Contract negotiation and analysis (e.g., confidentiality agreements, joint development agreements)
  • Corporate transactions and M&A support
  • General business counseling

Marcus W. Sprow and Foley & Lardner LLP bring a strong set of features and highlights that set them apart, particularly for the Michigan community.

• Specialized Technical Expertise: Marcus W. Sprow's background in materials science engineering gives him a distinct advantage in understanding complex technical innovations, which is crucial for effective patent and intellectual property representation. This is particularly beneficial for Michigan's robust engineering and manufacturing industries.
• Leadership in Intellectual Property: As vice-chair of Foley & Lardner LLP's Intellectual Property Department and managing partner of the Detroit office, Marcus W. Sprow plays a significant role in shaping the firm's IP strategies and delivering high-quality services to clients. He also leads the Intellectual Property practice in the Detroit office.
• Focus on Key Michigan Industries: The firm’s strong involvement in the Automotive, Technology, and Manufacturing Industry Teams, coupled with expertise in Energy & Infrastructure and Electrified Mobility, directly aligns with Michigan’s economic strengths and future growth areas. This deep industry knowledge means they understand the specific challenges and opportunities faced by local businesses.
• Extensive Experience with Major Clients: Marcus W. Sprow has served as outside counsel to some of the world's largest manufacturers, medical device companies, and energy solution providers. This experience demonstrates their capability to handle high-stakes and complex legal matters effectively.
• Commitment to Design Rights: As a core member of Foley's Design Rights Group, Marcus W. Sprow has helped clients secure thousands of design patents globally, protecting the aesthetic and functional design of a wide array of products. This is vital for companies that invest heavily in product innovation and branding.
• Community Involvement: As the managing partner of the Detroit office, Marcus W. Sprow is focused on strategically growing the Detroit office and enhancing Foley's presence in the local market, including continuing to steward community involvement. This demonstrates a commitment not just to legal practice but to the welfare of the Michigan community. He is also a graduate of the Detroit Regional Chamber's Leadership Detroit Class XXXI.
• Recognition and Awards: Marcus W. Sprow has been consistently recognized for his legal prowess, including being named to Michigan Super Lawyers – Rising Stars® (2011-2015), IAM Patent 1000 – The World's Leading Patent Practitioners (2016, 2020-2021, 2024), and DBusiness Top Lawyers (2011 and 2025). He also received the Patent Pro Bono Certificate from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and The American Intellectual Property Law Association Pro Bono Award in 2023, highlighting his dedication to pro bono work and legal ethics.

While law firms generally do not offer "promotions" in the traditional sense, Foley & Lardner LLP, through professionals like Marcus W. Sprow, consistently demonstrates a commitment to providing value and support to the Michigan community. Their extensive pro bono work, as evidenced by Marcus W. Sprow's Patent Pro Bono Certificate and the American Intellectual Property Law Association Pro Bono Award, signifies a dedication to making legal services accessible and supporting innovation even for those with limited resources. This commitment to community service and pro bono assistance can be seen as an ongoing "special offer" in terms of their dedication to upholding justice and supporting individuals and businesses who might otherwise struggle to access high-quality legal counsel. They are invested in the well-being and growth of the Michigan community, reflecting a broader commitment to corporate social responsibility that benefits everyone.

If you are in Michigan and believe that the specialized legal expertise of Marcus W. Sprow and Foley & Lardner LLP could benefit you or your business, reaching out is straightforward.

• Address: 500 Woodward Ave STE 2700, Detroit, MI 48226, USA
• Phone: (313) 234-7150
• Mobile Phone: +1 313-234-7150

Contacting them directly allows you to discuss your specific legal needs and understand how their tailored approach can help you navigate your challenges effectively. Their team is ready to provide the professional guidance you require.

For Michigan locals, choosing Foley & Lardner LLP with Marcus W. Sprow is more than just selecting a law firm; it's partnering with a team that understands the unique pulse of our state. Their deep specialization in intellectual property, particularly patents, coupled with their expertise in energy, automotive, and manufacturing sectors, makes them uniquely suited to support Michigan's diverse economy. Marcus W. Sprow's engineering background offers a distinctive advantage, enabling him to grasp the intricate technical details of innovative ventures, a critical asset for the businesses driving Michigan's future. The firm's prime downtown Detroit location ensures easy access for clients from across the region. Furthermore, their commitment to community involvement and pro bono service underscores a genuine dedication to the well-being of Michigan residents and businesses. In a state that thrives on innovation and industry, having a legal partner who is not only highly skilled but also deeply invested in local success, is invaluable. Foley & Lardner LLP, led by Marcus W. Sprow in Detroit, stands as a beacon of legal excellence and community commitment, making them an ideal choice for your complex legal needs right here in Michigan.