abetterwaytopracticelaw

Attorney Spotlight: Shehla Syed Named to Best Lawyers® 2027 

West Hill Technology Counsel is proud to announce that Shehla Syed, Shareholder & IP Strategist, has been named to the Best Lawyers® 2027 list. 

This recognition reflects Shehla’s exceptional work in intellectual property law and her commitment to helping innovative businesses protect and maximize the value of their ideas, brands, and creative assets. Her inclusion in the 2027 edition of Best Lawyers underscores West Hill’s ongoing mission to empower technology-driven companies through sophisticated, strategic legal counsel. 

“For more than 40 years, the rigorous methodology of Best Lawyers has ensured the integrity and esteem of our legal recognition,” said Best Lawyers CEO Phillip Greer. “It is with great pleasure that we continue to provide potential clients with the pinnacle measurement of credibility through our Best Lawyers awards as they search for counsel.” 

Lawyers recognized in Best Lawyers are selected through a comprehensive peer-review process that evaluates professional expertise, ethical standards, and overall standing within the legal community. Honorees are organized by geographic region and practice area and undergo an authentication process to verify they remain in current practice and good standing. 

About Shehla Syed 

Shehla specializes in Intellectual Property, Litigation, and Alternative Dispute Resolution. She advises clients across the full spectrum of intellectual property matters, including trademarks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets. By combining legal acumen with strategic business insight, Shehla helps organizations protect, enforce, and maximize the value of their innovations, content, and brands. 

Her recognition in Best Lawyers 2027 reflects both her professional excellence and her dedication to delivering practical, business-focused solutions for clients operating in today’s rapidly evolving technology landscape. 

About West Hill 

West Hill Technology Counsel is a boutique business and technology law firm that provides proactive, practical legal guidance designed to prevent legal problems before they arise. Our clients are innovative startups and growth-stage companies that create or leverage technology as a core part of their business model. 

About Best Lawyers 

Best Lawyers® is one of the oldest and most respected peer-review legal publications in the profession. Lawyers included in The Best Lawyers in America list are recognized based on comprehensive peer evaluations, verified practice status, and professional standing. 

Learn more about Best Lawyers. 

Top 6 Lessons Learned at WBENC 2026 – And Why It Matters for Your Business

The West Hill Team spent an energizing week at WBENC 2026. It delivered exactly what great conferences should: fresh ideas, meaningful connections, and a few reminders that challenge the way we think about growth. From AI’s growing role in procurement to the enduring value of relationships and reputation, the conversations in Salt Lake City revealed where businesses need to focus to stay competitive. As a women-owned law firm that works alongside innovators, founders, and growing companies, we left with six takeaways that every business leader should be thinking about right now.

1. Shift from a Know-it-all to a Learn-it-all. 

Staying curious beats being the smartest person in the room. Day to day business issues are rapidly evolving and none of us have all the answers. Stay curious and open to change. Have a conversation that stretches your thinking.

2. Customer obsession still wins–full stop.  

Listen to your customers. Solve real problems–consistently. Corporates want to work with small businesses that are nimble, innovative, and prepared. . Small businesses should be prepared to articulate how they are different, the concrete value they deliver, and how they are positively impacting their communities. Overpromising is expensive. Contracts don’t flex just because your business is growing. Understand what you can deliver—and stand behind it. 

3. AI is already shaping procurement decisions.

Sourcing teams are using AI to find and filter vendors. Your digital presence is no longer marketing—it’s infrastructure. Be precise and consistent. Always test yourself: run sourcing tools against your own brand. If you don’t show up, you don’t exist. That said, AI can shortlist, but humans still choose. References, relationships, and outcomes matter.

4. Get your house in order for an exit – early.  

Sarah Noble from Wells Fargo moderated a panel about mergers and acquisitions and encouraged attendees to work with experts to get their business ready for exit.  Buyers reward readiness–and penalize gaps. M&A professionals are seeing meaningful valuation hits when companies aren’t prepared. Programs like WBENC Lift aren’t optional—they’re upside. 

5. Data drives everything—including your brand. 

Melissa Proctor (CMO, Atlanta Hawks) said it best: data is king. But the takeaway goes further—your brand must connect across every touchpoint and remain consistent. Protect your brand elements and take every opportunity to measure impact. If your story isn’t integrated, it’s forgettable. 

6. “I’m everyone’s wing woman.” People still win the room. 

Amy Acompara from Polaris Direct walked the walk at the WBENC conference by offering introductions, insights, and support to fellow WBEs. Business is—and always will be—about people helping people. Be the connector. Be generous with your time and your expertise. 

WBENC 2026: A week of Impact, Community and Action 

The 2026 WBENC National Conference in Salt Lake City made one thing clear: this community doesn’t just connect–it moves. 

From the first session to the final celebration, women-owned businesses, corporate partners, and industry leaders showed up ready to take advantage of the opportunities in front of them. Conversations turned into next steps. Introductions turned into action plans. 

As one attendee put it, the value of WBENC goes “far beyond business opportunities… it’s about the relationships we build, the ideas we exchange, and the community we continue to strengthen together.” 

There wasn’t just energy. There was action. 

A Community Built to Drive Impact 

WBENC continues to set the standard for what a meaningful business community looks like—connection, execution, and impact.

At West Hill, we were proud to be part of a community that prioritizes supporting and doing—not just discussing. 

WBENC’s 2026 theme—IMPACT—showed up everywhere. From programming to Expo conversations to the way attendees showed up for each other with intention. Not as a tagline, but as a standard. 

Leaders reinforced that this network isn’t just about access—it’s about outcomes. As WBENC Co-Chair Janice Bryant Howroyd put it: 

“WBENC is more than a certification; it’s a powerful network that amplifies the voices of women-owned businesses and drives meaningful progress… Together, we unlock opportunities, build partnerships, and inspire growth.” 

That ethos was visible across every room, every session, and every conversation. 

Monday, June 15: Start with Purpose, Build for Impact 

The week opened with a clear directive: act boldly, lead intentionally and build something that lasts. 

The General Session set the tone early–this isn’t about showing up to listen. It’s about showing up and taking action. As a Host Committee member, West Hill joined the Center for Women & Enterprise to bring this that mindset to life—grounded in long-term investment in women entrepreneurs and the ecosystems that support them.  

A few takeaways that stuck: 

• The future of work is already shifting–if we want to stay relevant, we need to prepare for roles that don’t exist yet. Stay curious. 

• We need to continuously update our operating system. The best leaders aren’t “know-it-alls”–they’re “learn-it’alls” 

• Progress requires clarity, but leadership requires comfort with nuance. 

We also got our hands dirty–collaborating on the Acadia-themed Northeast Region poster and “impact journey” bandanas for the National Parks evening event. A reminder that this community builds together, not just alongside each other. 

Bottom line: Impact is intentional. And it starts on day one. 

Tuesday, June 16: Access that Actually Moves the Needle 

Tuesday delivered what WBENC consistently does better than most: real access. 

Corporate Meet & Greets and Industry Labs weren’t just well-attended–they were productive. The difference is simple: this is access to decision-makers who can actually move your business forward. 

This isn’t networking for the sake of it. It’s business development in real time. 

The biggest takeaway: 
When access is paired with preparation and follow-through, it converts. 

This is where strategies get tested, refined and–if you do it right–advanced. 

Wednesday, June 17: Engagement that Creates Opportunity 

Once the Expo floor opened, the energy shifted into full gear. 

The West Hill booth became what we intended it to be: a point of entry. A way to start a conversation, create a connection, and open the door to more substantive conversations about building and protecting innovative businesses.  

And that distinction matters: 

Engagement isn’t the goal. Results are. 

From quick interactions to deeper conversations around growth, tech, and risk, the throughline was consistent–help businesses move faster, smarter, and with more confidence. 

Across the conference, that same pattern held: 

Relationships aren’t built in a single moment. But moments start them. 

Speaker Spotlight:  Leadership in Action 

Keynote Coach Dawn Staley’s message landed: leadership is discipline, accountability and belief–executed consistently at every level of success. Not theory. Practice.  

Other session themes reinforced that same idea: 

• Growth requires action–not just strategy 

• Procurement is evolving into a strategic driver 

• The businesses that move fastest are the ones willing to step into bigger opportunities, earlier  

Translation: execution wins. Keep taking the next step. 

Speaker Spotlight: Ayana Parsons

Rich and Rundown Is Expected. Wealthy and Free Is Not. – Ayana Parsons

What if the biggest thing standing between your business and your wealth is the story you’ve been telling yourself?

In one of our favorite sessions, Ayana Parsons challenged women business owners to rethink the relationship between entrepreneurship, success, and financial freedom. A venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of the Fearless Fund, Parsons brought a candid perspective shaped by her own experience building and selling a successful business.

In her session, she explored a provocative idea: many founders know how to build thriving companies, but far fewer know how to build lasting wealth. Parsons encouraged attendees to move beyond being “rich and rundown” and instead envision a future where they are truly “wealthy and free.”

It was an honest conversation about ownership, valuation, succession, and the difference between running a business and a business running you.

“I confused building my business over building wealth. They are not the same. Because growth is important—but freedom is the ultimate goal.”

Thursday, June 18: From Connection to Conversion 

By Thursday, you could feel the shift. 

Conversations went deeper. Follow-ups started happening in real time. “Nice to meet you: turned into “Let’s do this.” 

This is where WBENC stands apart–people come back, reconnect and move things forward quickly. Relationships strengthened. Opportunities became more tangible. 

And the conversations reflected what our clients are living every day: 

• Speed and agility aren’t optional–they’re expected 

• Compliance and risk management aren’t side considerations–you can’t afford to get them wrong 

• AI, data and operational efficiency are no longer future state–they are now 

The takeaway:  

The businesses that win will be the ones that balance growth with discipline–and move without creating unnecessary risk. 

Closing Moments: Momentum That Doesn’t Stop Here 

As the conference wrapped, the focus stayed grounded in what matters most: collective impact. 

Not a theoretical impact. Economic impact. Real businesses driving growth, innovation, and leadership across industries. 

The energy in Salt Lake City wasn’t just celebratory—it was directional. Momentum that continues well beyond the conference. 

The West Hill Takeaway: Impact isn’t passive. It’s Built. 

WBENC 2026 reinforced something we already believe: 

Impact doesn’t happen by showing up. 
It happens when you do something with the room you are in. 

That means: 

• Engaging with intention 

• Following through quickly 

• Turning conversations into action 

That is how we approach our work. And that is why the WBENC community fits.  

We don’t just show up. 
We help businesses move forward. 

Because impact isn’t what you talk about. 
It’s what you build.  

Attorney Spotlight: West Hill Attorneys Earn Super Lawyers Honors for 2026

West Hill Technology Counsel is pleased to announce that Shehla Syed and Annie Morgan have been recognized by Super Lawyers for 2026, highlighting their accomplishments in the legal field.  

Shehla Syed, Shareholder and IP Strategist at West Hill, has been named a Super Lawyer 2026, a recognition she has received for over five years. Shehla focuses her practice on intellectual property strategy, trademark, copyright, and patent matters, technology transactions, and intellectual property litigation. She works closely with technology-driven companies to protect and enforce their innovations, brands, and creative assets. Shehla brings a strategic, business-aligned approach to complex intellectual property issues. Super Lawyers awards this distinction to no more than five percent of attorneys in each state through a rigorous peer-review and research process.  

Super Lawyers also selected Annie Morgan as a Rising Star 2026, recognizing her as a top emerging attorney. Annie practices in intellectual property, patent prosecution, data privacy and security, and commercial contracts and negotiations. As a registered patent attorney and Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/E), Annie advises clients on navigating evolving legal issues related to technology, data, and artificial intelligence while aligning legal strategy with business objectives. Rising Stars honorees represent no more than 2.5 percent of attorneys in each state. 

“Shehla and Annie exemplify the caliber of lawyers we strive to attract and support at West Hill—strategic thinkers who combine deep technical knowledge with practical, client-focused advice. Their Super Lawyers recognitions reflect their dedication to excellence, innovation, and our clients’ success.” said Louise Kennedy, Founding Attorney, West Hill Technology Counsel.  

West Hill congratulates Shehla and Annie on these well-earned honors and celebrates their continued leadership and impact across the firm’s intellectual property and technology-focused practices. 

About West Hill

West Hill Technology Counsel is a boutique business and technology law firm. The firm provides proactive, practical legal advice to help business owners and corporate decision makers solve problems before they arise. West Hill represents new and growing businesses that create or leverage technology as a core part of their business models. 

About Super Lawyers

For more Information on Super Lawyers, click here. 

COMMUNITY EVENTS: Highlights from the NSTC’s Fourth Annual Women in Technology Forum

On Wednesday, October 15, 2025, the North Shore Technology Council (NSTC) held its Fourth Annual Women in Technology Forum themed “Navigating Transitions: Resilience Fueled by Passion.” West Hill is proud to support this dynamic event, which brought together some inspiring voices in tech and innovation to share stories of perseverance, growth, and transformation.

An Evening of Inspiration and Insight

The night began with a powerful keynote from Helen Greiner, PH.D., Co-founder of iRobot. From being captivated by R2D2 in Star Wars as a child to developing the iconic Roomba and groundbreaking military robotics, Grenier shared the highs and lows of her entrepreneurial journey. Her story was a vivid reminder that innovation often emerges from persistence in the face of failure and the courage to reinvent.

Real Stories from Real Trailblazers

Moderated by Tracey Curley, CEO and CFO of iSpecimen and NSTC Board Member, the panel featured a powerhouse of women leaders:

• Cynthia Bamdad, PH.D., CEO of Minerva Biotechnologies
• Liz Reczek, PH.D., Co-Founder & CEO of Sempresto, Inc.
• Michelle Chao, Co-founder & former COO of Phoenix Tailings
• Christine Ortiz, PH.D., Director, MIT Technology & Policy Program

Each panelist shared raw and real accounts of navigating life’s curveballs–from health challenges and personal setbacks to business pivots and team struggles. Despite the varied paths, a common thread ran through their stories: grit and resilience driven by passion.

Whether facing breast cancer of a loved one, divorce, or start-up failures, these leaders leaned into challenges as opportunities to learn, grow, and adapt. Their stories highlighted the importance of collaboration, calling on mentors, peers, and partners to forge new paths when traditional routes failed. From formative guidance in early career stages to reciprocal relationships with mentees, the discussion highlighted how meaningful connections can drive personal and professional transformation. The room buzzed with energy as the audience engaged with questions, sparking conversations of shared struggles and triumphs.

A Night for Connection

The Women in Technology Forum remains a platform for celebrating innovation, authenticity, and resilience within the tech community. As West Hill reflects on the evening, we remain inspired by the courage and wisdom shared on stage and are honored to support the NSTC in fostering a more inclusive and empowering future in technology.

“West Hill remains committed to supporting and elevating women in the legal community and in the technology businesses we work with,” said Louise Kennedy. 

About the NSTC

The evening concluded with remarks from NSTC President Gene Wong, the Dean of Science & Technology at Endicott College. For more information on the North Shore Technology Counsel please follow the NSTC on LinkedIn and visit NSTC.org for more info on joining their community and events.

About West Hill Technology Counsel

West Hill Technology Counsel is a boutique business and technology law firm. We offer proactive, practical legal guidance designed to prevent problems before they arise. Our clients are innovative start-ups and growth-stage companies that create or leverage technology as a core part of their business model. The support and empowerment of women is a critical component of the West Hill vision and mission. 

Navigating AI for Business – A Legal Perspective

West Hill recently returned from the 2025 WBENC National Conference in New Orleans, where we attended a notable panel: “Technology and Creativity for the Future.”  

Moderated by WBENC President and CEO Pamela Prince Eason, the panel featured insights from Brett Howroyd (ActOne), Diana Gonzalez (Amazon), and Kathy Golding (EY), each of whom shared how their organizations are using AI to fuel both business success and personal growth. 

A central theme of the session? Responsible innovation and ethical leadership are key to harnessing the opportunities presented by an AI-driven world.  

One panelist put it simply:

AI is like a car – you don’t need to know how the engine works in order to drive it.

We loved this analogy. But just like with driving, there’s a lot more to using AI in your business than simply knowing how to “turn it on.” You also need to understand the rules, responsibilities, and potential risks. Let’s break it down:

🚦What You Need to Know:

1. How the Car Works = AI Basics

How do I turn it on? Where is the gas cap located? What is the red warning light on the dashboard? Even if you don’t build cars, you still need to know the basics to drive one safely. The same goes for using AI.

For all AI tools — think ChatGPT, Otter.ai, Claude, and beyond–ask: 

• 💡What data was used to train the AI? Is it biased, proprietary, or outdated? 
• 💡What does the Acceptable Use Policy require? Are there limitations on how you can use the tool? 
• 💡Are your inputs confidential? Does the AI provider store, reuse, or train on your data?

2. Rules of the Road = AI Terms and Conditions and Applicable Laws

You can’t drive without a license or ignore the speed limit. Who has the right of way at an intersection? Likewise, when deploying AI in business processes, are there legal and contractual rules to follow? 

For AI technology used in your business – automation, customer chatbots, resume screening, etc:

• 💡Are your inputs or outputs being used to further train the AI models? 
• 💡Will the vendor agree to keep your business data confidential?  
• 💡Does this use of AI comply with applicable law (NYC, the EU Ai Act, state privacy regulations, etc.)?  

⚠️ A Crash Waiting to Happen . . .  

Just like driving, using AI comes with inherent risks. Here’s how to recognize and reduce them: 

3. Dangerous Road Conditions 

Sometimes AI models can hallucinate – or provide inaccurate outputs. Avoid deploying AI unmonitored in high-risk areas, including: 

• Recruitment and employment decisions 
• Safety-critical or regulatory compliance tasks 
• Monitoring or controlling critical infrastructure 
   
  ❗Risk Mitigation: Use human oversight and verification. Don’t let AI operate autonomously in high-stakes environments. 

4. Driver Error

Business teams can – and do – make mistakes when using AI. Common issues include:  

• Entering confidential information into public AI platforms 
• Failing to QA AI-generated outputs 
• Violating data privacy or employment laws when using AI tools (like meeting note transcription software) 
  
  ❗Risk Mitigation: Create a comprehensive AI Use Policy for your business. Tailor additional policies for specialized teams like HR, Legal, or Software Development, as needed. r a winter trip.

5. Distracted Driving

AI can be a helpful tool, but overreliance can dull innovation and open you to IP risks:  

• AI-generated content may infringe third-party copyrights  
• Materials generated heavily (e.g. marketing content or code) may not be eligible for copyright protection 
• The USPTO and other agencies are issuing new guidance on AI and patentability 
  
  ❗Risk Mitigation: Train employees on the intersection of AI and IP and maintain oversight when using AI in creative or strategic work. 

To stretch the analogy a bit further . . . 
6. 🚗 Going All-in on Cars = AI Development 

Some businesses aren’t just driving the car – they’re building or customizing them. If your company is integrating or developing AI products (e.g. LLMs, chatbots, APIs), you’re playing a different game. 

For AI product development: 

• 💡Do AI vendors terms limit your ability to build AI offerings? (e.g. Geographic or age-based restrictions) 
• 💡What AI-related disclaimers or notices must you provide to end users? 
• 💡Are your AI vendors meeting data privacy and security standards? 
  
  ❗Risk Mitigation: If your company is “manufacturing” with AI, you must understand the equivalent of emissions rules, safety standards and warranty obligations. Building AI into your offering requires a higher level of due diligence – and a robust compliance framework. 

🧠 Final Thoughts

AI holds tremendous promise – but businesses must navigate this landscape with legal insight and operational care. Whether you are a casual driver or full-blown automaker in the AI economy, staying informed and compliant is the only way to drive growth safely and stay in control. 

WBENC 2025: A Week of Connection, Celebration, and Community

The 2025 WBENC National Conference in New Orleans was was a powerful and inspiring gathering of Women-Owned Businesses (WBEs), corporate partners and industry leaders. From the moment we arrived to the final farewell, the week was filled with energy, empowerment, and unforgettable moments—both joyful and deeply meaningful.

Celebrating and Honoring a Powerful Leader

While the week overflowed with excitement, an unmistakable reflection of the passion and momentum driving the WBENC community, it was followed by heartbreaking news: the sudden and tragic loss of WBENC President and CEO, Pamela Prince-Eason.

Pam’s presence throughout the week in New Orleans was felt deeply. She led, as she has for decades, with strength, grace, and a commitment that has defined her legacy. A visionary leader, tireless advocate, and unwavering supporter of women-owned businesses, Pam inspired throusands with her dedication to changing the narrative and creating space for women to thrive.

With more than 4,800 conference attendees—including over 2,500 certified women-owned businesses—the conference reflected years of innovation and intentional growth, much of it driven by Pam, her dedicated team, and her incredible network. The programming, connection, and impact of this year’s event were a testament to her leadership.

This unforgettable week served to elevate the voices, visibility, and networks of women entrepreneurs, reinforcing their role as key drivers of economic growth. West Hill is honored to have participated in such a meaningful event, and we remain committed to supporting the vibrant WBENC community.

As we celebrate the success of the 2025 conference, we also remember and honor Pam Prince-Eason–her vision, her leadership, and her enduring legacy. Her impact will be felt for generation, and we are grateful to have been a part of the community she so powerfully built.

Monday, June 23rd, General Session Kick-off and RPO Meet up

The conference was kicked off with an energizing General Session to set the tone for an inspiring week of connection, innovation and empowerment. Louise Kennedy represented West Hill Technology Counsel and welcomed the Center for Women & Enterprise group as a member of the Host Committee. The group joined together to build the Northeast RPO float with the theme: “To Plant a Seed is to Believe in Tomorrow.” The meet-up was followed by the float parade where the group tossed New England themed candy, Boston Baked Beans and Mary Janes, to the crowd.

The West Hill Team Kicked of the WBENC Conference in Style!

The West Hill team laced up their favorite kicks and hit the Sneaker Jam to kick off the 2025 WBENC National Conference with style, sparkle, and serious energy!

This high-vibe evening was the perfect mix of fun and purpose–with dinner, music and a vibrant Women Owned Pop-up Shop featuring so many incredible brands to explore and support. From blingling out our sneakers to connecting with fellow WBEs and corporate partners, Sneaker Jam set the tone for an inspiring week ahead.

Corporate Meet & Greets, Industry Labs and Women Owned Pop-Up Shop

Tuesday included a jam packed day of Corporate Meet & Greets, Industry Labs, expo booth set-up and finished up with an evening event to celebrate the Community Resource Groups.

Wednesday Highlights from the WBENC Confernce

Wednesday kicked off with an energizing General Session, followed by the highly anticipated opening of the Expo floor–and the West Hill team was ready!

We had a blast meeting and connecting with fellow attendees throughout the day. Our booth turned into a hub of friendly competition with our paper airplane toss contest–a fun way to spark conversations and add a little extra excitement to the expo experience.

Many stopped by to chat and give it their best shot at hitting the target…but only a few skilled flyers walked away with the prizes!

It was a day full of meaningful connections, great energy, and of course, a bit of paper airplane fun. We’re so grateful to be a part of this incredible community of women entrepreneurs and supporters.

Thursday Recap: Momentum and Meaningful Conversations

On Thursday, the West Hill booth was buzzing with even more energy, connection, and inspiration. The paper airplane toss kept the fun going, sparking conversations and plenty of laughs, while meaningful business discussion continued to take flight.

We loved seeing familiar faces return and new ones stop by to share ideas, stories, and a little friendly competition. It’s been incredible to watch how a simple activity can open the door to impactful conversations.

Thursday Evening: Masquerade Magic to Close out an Incredible Week

On Thursday evening, the West Hill team donned some masks and joined fellow attendees for a spectacular Masquerade on the Bayou at the Grand Oaks Mansion. The evening was the perfect way to close out an unforgettable week–filled with dinner, music, fun and most importantly, meaningful conversations and lasting connections.

It was a celebration of the vibrant WBENC community and the powerful spirit of women in business. We’re grateful for every moment, and especially the incredible people we met along the way.

Attorney Spotlight: Boston Magazine Selects Shehla Syed to 2024 Top Lawyers List 

West Hill is pleased to announce that  Shehla Syed  has been named to the  Boston Magazine Top Lawyers™ 2024 list. Shehla has been recognized for excellence in Intellectual Property Law. This annual accolade, initiated in 2021, is designed to highlight outstanding legal talent in the region. Attorneys have the opportunity to nominate their peers in specific areas of expertise, with the rankings determined through peer voting and an advisory board. 

“I am honored to be named a Top Lawyer by Boston magazine alongside so many great peers also recognized on this year’s list,” said Shehla Syed. 

Shehla has also been recognized by Boston Magazine (since 2023) and Best Lawyers (2024) and Super Lawyers (since 2019) in her areas of expertise. 

Click here to view Shehla Syed’s listing. 

About Shehla Syed

Shehla Syed is a West Hill Shareholder and IP Strategist specializing in Intellectual Property, Litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution. Ms. Syed counsels clients on all aspects of their intellectual property – trademarks, copyrights, patents and trade secrets – to help them maximize the value and enforceability of their content, brands and technology. 

About  Boston  magazine Top Lawyers List 

Click here to view the complete list of 2024 Top Lawyers. The December issue of Boston magazine featuring the highly anticipated 2024 Top Lawyers list is now available in print and online.

About West Hill 

West Hill Technology Counsel is a boutique business and technology law firm. Providing proactive, practical legal advice to help solve problems before they arise. Our clients are new and growing businesses that create or leverage technology as a core part of their business model.  

West Hill Named to 2025 Best Law Firms List by Best Lawyers

West Hill is pleased to announce that our firm has been ranked among the nation’s top law firms by Best Lawyers^®, achieving recognition in the Best Law Firms^® 2025 edition. Firms in the Best Law Firms rankings are recognized for excellence and have impressive ratings from clients and peers.

The 15th edition of Best Law Firms, independently produced by Best Lawyers, serves as a benchmark for excellence in the legal industry, providing a comprehensive and reliable guide to the top-performing law firms across 127 practice areas and 188 local jurisdictions. The rankings are meticulously compiled based on a rigorous evaluation process that includes client feedback, peer reviews, industry leader interviews, and detailed analysis of law firm data. Best Law Firms received more than 100,000 client references and observed a 65% increase in client participation in its survey for the 2025 edition. 

According to Best Lawyers, achieving a tiered ranking signals a unique combination of quality law practice and breadth of legal expertise. Ranked firms, presented in three tiers, are recognized on a national and regional scale. Firms that receive a tier designation reflect the highest level of respect a firm can earn among other leading lawyers and clients from the same communities and practice areas. West Hill has been recognized in Boston as Tier 2 for Litigation–Intellectual Property. 

“We are both delighted and proud to be awarded this prestigious designation and recognized for our firm’s expertise in intellectual property law,” said Louise Leduc Kennedy, Founding Attorney, West Hill.

About Best Lawyers Best Law Firms

For more information about Best Lawyers® and the Best Law Firms list, click here.

About West Hill

West Hill Technology Counsel is a boutique business and technology law firm. Providing proactive, practical legal advice to solve problems before they arise. Our clients are new and growing businesses that create or leverage technology as a core business model.

West Hill named to Mass Lawyers Weekly Inaugural Best Women-Led Law Firms List 2024

West Hill is proud to be recognized in the inaugural Best Women-Led Law Firms List 2024 by Mass Lawyers Weekly. We congratulate fellow recipients for their shared commitment to the support and advancement of women in the legal community.

The Best Women-Led Law Firms Award celebrates the incredible contributions of female-led law firms across Massachusetts, and a law firm’s commitment to hiring and promoting women, providing mentoring and opportunities for professional advancement to women attorneys, and establishing programs and policies to help women attorneys thrive professionally.

“We are both delighted and proud to be awarded this designation and recognized for our firm’s continued commitment to supporting and elevating women in the legal community,” said Louise Leduc Kennedy, Founding Attorney, West Hill. 

A Better Way to Practice Law

West Hill was founded on and remains committed to hiring and providing professional development for women attorneys and support staff.  Louise Kennedy established West Hill in 2008, after working in the Boston office of a regional law firm and as an in-house counsel at IBM. When Louise attended her 10^th law school reunion, she was the mother of two daughters.  She was distressed to learn how many women in her class had abandoned the practice of law because the pressures of large firm practice were incompatible with the needs of a growing family. Louise was looking for a better way to practice law and allow attorneys to integrate their commitments to family. She created a sophisticated technology law practice that is dynamic, challenging, and innovative.   

West Hill Values

Louise built a team of motivated and upbeat legal professionals looking for flexibility while still practicing law at a high level. In 2022, Shehla Syed was elevated to shareholder and assists in the day-to-day management of the firm. West Hill values innovation, integrity, open and honest communication, and diversity. These values shape the positive and inclusive firm culture. West Hill believes – and clients have affirmed – that happy lawyers = happy clients.   

Certified Women-Owned Business

West Hill is a WBENC- and SBA-certified women-owned business actively redefining the concept of private law practice. When working with West Hill, clients get the benefit of hiring a diverse supplier, which helps them meet state, federal and industry-based diversity procurement requirements and goals.

Best Women-Led Law Firms

For more information about Mass Lawyers Weekly and the Best Women-Led Law Firms list, click here.  

About West Hill

The support and empowerment of women is a critical component of the West Hill Vision and Mission. 

Next Page »