IRVINE, Calif., July 14, 2026 – Leading intellectual property law firm Knobbe Martens is pleased to share that four of the firm’s partners—Jessica Achtsam, Charlene Azema, Irfan Lateef, and Christy Lea—have been recognized in the 2026 Mid-Year Issue of Profiles in Leadership Journal.
Published bi-annually, Profiles in Leadership Journal recognizes “leaders who are making significant impacts in their respective fields.”
Ms. Achtsam received Leadership Journal’s “Latino & Hispanic Leadership Award”, awarded to those who demonstrate leadership “informed by determination, heritage, professional expertise, and a commitment to helping others advance.” In her honoree profile, Ms. Achtsam was recognized for her role in helping to shape Knobbe Martens’ approach to recruiting, mentoring, and talent development through her service on multiple firm committees, as well as her efforts in building the firm’s work with Texas-based life sciences companies.
Ms. Azema, who co-chairs Knobbe Martens’ Trademark and Brand Protection practice and sits on the firm’s Executive Committee, was named among Leadership Journal’s “Women Worth Watching in Leadership”. This annual recognition honors women who “exemplify vision, innovation, and determination” in their fields. In her profile, Ms. Azema shared insights into her approach to leadership, remarking that “[T]he most effective leaders are those who empower others.” Regarding her mentorship and talent retention philosophy, she added that “[I]nvesting in people not only strengthens careers, but contributes to a more collaborative and resilient organization.”
Mr. Lateef was honored with Leadership Journal’s “Mentoring Leadership Award,” which recognizes individuals who “generously share their knowledge, experience, encouragement, and professional judgment to help others succeed.” Discussing the importance of supportive mentorship, Mr. Lateef, who co-chairs the firm’s Electrical, Semiconductor & Computer Technology Litigation practice, said, “When someone knows the floor under them is solid, it’s remarkable how much higher they’re willing to climb.”
Ms. Lea, Co-Chair of Knobbe Martens’ Medical Device Litigation practice, earned the “STEAM Leadership Award” from Leadership Journal, which recognizes accomplished professionals working across science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. In addition to sharing her perspective on the importance of STEAM education, Ms. Lea discussed how her career in IP law has allowed her to bring together “all of the things [she] loves: science, technology, problem-solving, communication, and advocacy.”
About Knobbe Martens
Knobbe Martens protects the ideas that drive innovation and propel our world forward. As a leading intellectual property and technology law firm, clients worldwide rely on us to safeguard their products, brands, and technologies through strategic counsel and high-impact litigation. With offices across the U.S., our lawyers and technology specialists collaborate to deliver tailored solutions for clients ranging from multinational corporations to start-ups and emerging companies at every stage. Discover more at www.knobbe.com.
Subscribe for News and Updates
