The Ascendancy of Brett Lewis: A Luminary in Domain Name Law

In the dynamic world of domain name law, few have carved a niche as influential as Brett Lewis. A partner at Lewis & Hand, LLP, Lewis is celebrated for his expertise in representing clients under the Anti-Cybersquatting Consumer Protection Act (ACPA), offering guidance in disputes governed by ICANN’s Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP), and in various internet and licensing agreements, including issues of trademark and copyright infringement​​.

Lewis’s journey in law began with a sterling academic record, graduating magna cum laude from Brooklyn Law School. His early career saw him clerking for Judge David G. Trager in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, followed by a pivotal role at Winthrop, Stimson, Putnam & Roberts (now Pillsbury Winthrop). His work here involved litigating Intellectual Property, UDRP, and other domain name disputes, in addition to drafting and negotiating a plethora of internet-related agreements​​​​.

An important chapter in Lewis’s career was his tenure as Associate General Counsel at Register.com, one of the world’s largest domain name registrars. Here, he adeptly managed cutting-edge litigation and formulated strategies for IP protection and UDRP, showcasing his capacity for handling novel issues in the domain name sphere​​​​.

Lewis’s passion for domain name law is evident in his approach. Describing every case as a puzzle, he emphasizes the detective work involved in building or defending a case, finding satisfaction in piecing together these intricate legal mysteries. This mindset has enabled him to adeptly navigate the nuanced and often subjective nature of UDRP cases, where he acknowledges the human element in decision-making processes can lead to inconsistent outcomes​​.

His insights into the legal threats faced by domain investors are particularly enlightening. Lewis underscores the risks of statutory damages and the loss of valuable domain names through the UDRP process. He educates on the complexities of trademark protection, particularly in relation to dictionary word domain names, and advises on proactive measures for domain investors to safeguard their interests​​.

Lewis’s critique of the UDRP system is rooted in a desire for fairness and predictability. He proposes amendments for clearer definitions of acceptable practices and an appeals body to set binding rules. His advocacy for monetary sanctions against reverse domain name hijacking reflects his commitment to deterring overreaching claims and protecting the interests of domain investors​​.

In sum, Brett Lewis stands as a pivotal figure in the realm of domain name law. His contributions, spanning litigation, policy formulation, and educational efforts, have profoundly impacted how domain name disputes are navigated and resolved. His work not only reflects legal acumen but also a deep understanding of the internet’s ever-evolving landscape.

In the dynamic world of domain name law, few have carved a niche as influential as Brett Lewis. A partner at Lewis & Hand, LLP, Lewis is celebrated for his expertise in representing clients under the Anti-Cybersquatting Consumer Protection Act (ACPA), offering guidance in disputes governed by ICANN’s Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy (UDRP),…