Damon Butler

Working style

While desk work is an inevitable part of being an intellectual property (IP) lawyer, Damon prefers visiting his clients and engaging with them to understand their specific needs.

‘I love getting out and seeing what makes a business tick, rather than sitting behind my desk all day. I’m genuinely interested in and passionate about my clients’ businesses. It’s all about relationships, trust, and the personal touch. There’s no substitute for strong relationships so we spend a lot of time enhancing and maintaining relationships with our clients.’

Expertise

As a branding and trade mark specialist, Damon has clients of all shapes and sizes, whose markets are both local and international. No one particular industry dominates his client portfolio. They range from businesses in the consumer products space to those in entertainment and financial services—and he relishes the variety such diversity brings.

Another favourite aspect of his job is the challenge and satisfaction of helping a business take its brands to market, in New Zealand and overseas. Among Damon’s clients is Sistema Plastics, a New Zealand success story that now exports to more than 90 countries. 

I work with many exporters and it’s exciting seeing them achieve success overseas. As they grow, I become more involved in helping them with their business in new markets. Where they go, we go!

Organisation, attention to detail and thinking outside the box are important features of Damon’s working and leadership style. He sees himself as proactive and reliable, and tries to lead his team by example, helping them rise through the ranks to achieve their career goals.

Career highlights

Having worked in litigation and tax law early on in his career, Damon found his niche in IP nearly 20 years ago. He gained experience in the field at another firm before joining AJ Park in 2000. Damon counts watching his clients succeed, passing his patent attorney exams and being made a partner at AJ Park as highlights of his career to date.

Other credentials

Damon was selected by his peers for inclusion in the 2023 and 2024 Best Lawyers in New Zealand™ in the field of IP law.