Notable Successes

John M. Desmarais

The National Law Journal has named John Desmarais a 2020 Intellectual Property Trailblazer for his significant contributions to the sector, specifically for his decision to found an IP litigation firm without using billable hours.
 
When Desmarais started Desmarais LLP more than 10 years ago, he rejected the billable-hour model, choosing instead to offer flat-fee arrangements, which can include success bonuses. The firm also offers contingent-fee arrangements. These fee arrangements have proven effective and streamlined workflow.
 
“When a project comes in, we do it on a flat fee. We never get in fights with our clients about the bill because we say what it’s going to be in the beginning,” Desmarais told the National Law Journal.
 
Ultimately, by eliminating billable hours, Desmarais created a path that many others have followed, a trend that will likely continue with even large general-purpose firms adopting alternative fee arrangements, Desmarais said.
 
“Five years from now, this will be the more prevalent model,” Desmarais told the National Law Journal.
 
Read the National Law Journal story (subscription required)

John M. Desmarais