Thomas Varnum
Thomas represents and counsels businesses on a myriad of intellectual property and business matters. An avid supporter of North Carolina’s film industry, Thomas also practices in film and entertainment law, working with producers and filmmakers throughout the entire production process. In addition to his legal practice, Thomas is a co-owner of Mad Mole Brewing in Wilmington. He utilizes insights from this unique “real world” experience when counseling breweries, distilleries and wineries about alcoholic beverage law.
Thomas helps clients navigate intellectual property issues, including trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, idea protection, data privacy, and digital marketing. Thomas works with businesses and other content creators to identify, enforce and exploit their intellectual property rights. He also litigates intellectual property infringement and trade secrets misappropriation lawsuits in both state and federal courts, and handles trademark proceedings before the USPTO’s Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB).
He also represents individuals and companies active in all types of entertainment projects, from film and television, to online videos and other media. Thomas regularly works with independent producers and other filmmakers, counseling clients throughout the pre-production, production, post-production and distribution processes. Thomas has represented and negotiated with production companies, talent and entertainment lawyers from all over the country, helping talented people bring creative ideas all the way from inception to the screen.
Thomas represents companies and individuals in complex business litigation in both federal and state court. He has represented businesses and individuals in lawsuits involving a variety of issues, including contract disputes, intellectual property (trademark, copyright, and patent) infringement claims, trade secrets misappropriation claims, non-competition and non-solicitation agreements, defamation claims, construction disputes, shareholders’ rights, and lender liability claims.
Selected by his peers for inclusion in Business North Carolina’s “Legal Elite” in Intellectual Property (2015-2023) and “Young Guns” (2015)
Recognized in North Carolina Super Lawyers (Thomson Reuters) in Intellectual Property (2023); “Rising Star” (2014-2022)
Recognized as one of StarNews Media and the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce's "40 Under 40" (2019)
Rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell
Wilmington, North Carolina 28402
