Robert Rivas is a partner at Wolf, Rifkin, Shapiro, Schulman & Rabkin, LLP. He represents clients in global intellectual property portfolios including the protection of trademarks and trade dress and implementation of anti-counterfeit strategies. He is also seasoned in cross-border business transactions and disputes, coordinating and managing local counsel in foreign jurisdictions who are handling matters for his clients. 

In the wine, beer, and spirits industry, as well as in the nonalcoholic beverage arena, Robert has a well-established practice having handled some of the largest and most complex matters in the industry and earned a reputation as a “go to” lawyer. Robert represents clients from start-ups to global brands, as well as manufacturers, importers, and master distilleries and distillers, in intellectual property, transactional, and related litigation matters. He has wide experience negotiating and drafting agreements for the production, importation, and distribution of wine, beer, and spirits products.

Robert represents some of the world’s best-known hospitality, food & beverage brands. His clients in the United States and abroad, include hotels, resorts, bars, private clubs, restaurants and restaurant groups.

Fluent in both English and Spanish, Robert is a frequent lecturer and MCLE presenter on topics affecting the wine and spirits industry.

EDUCATION

• JD, University of San Diego School of Law, 1998
• BA, University of Southern California, 1995

ADMISSIONS

• California USDC: Central District of California

MEMBERSHIPS

• International Trademark Association (INTA)

HONORS & OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES

• Listed in Southern California Super Lawyers (2023-2024)

LANGUAGES

• Spanish