Sean Morris and Ryan Nishimoto Named ‘2024 Legal Visionaries’ by Los Angeles Times

Sean Morris, head of Arnold & Porter’s Los Angeles office, and Ryan Nishimoto, Intellectual Property partner, were recently named “2024 Legal Visionaries” by the Los Angeles Times’ Business of Law magazine. Legal Visionaries are a category subsection of the publication’s In-House Counsel Leadership Awards, which took place on October 18, 2024 and celebrated in-house counsel for their contributions to their respective industries over the last two years.

L.A. Times noted that being recognized as a visionary is “not only a reflection of exceptional skill, but underscores each attorney’s commitment to excellence, thought leadership, and impactful contributions to both their clients and the broader legal community.” Morris was highlighted for his proven track record of helping clients navigate high-profile matters and for serving as lead defense counsel in several MDL and state Attorney General actions. His pivotal role as co-lead counsel in a landmark California lead paint public nuisance case was also recognized by the publication. L.A. Times highlighted Morris’ role as co-founder of Reading to Kids, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit organization, and for fostering a “love of reading in underserved schools.”

Nishimoto was recognized for “adeptly representing leading companies” in complex disputes involving patents, trade secrets, and copyrights across various high-tech sectors, including smartphones, software and medical devices. In particular, L.A. Times highlighted Nishimoto’s lead role in a patent infringement case and for achieving favorable outcomes for clients in patent litigation. The publication also praised Nishimoto’s active role in hiring and mentoring associates, as well as his involvement with the LGBTQ+ Lawyers Association, the Asian Pacific American Bar Association, and the Public Counsel’s Adoptions Project.