KANSAS CITY, Mo. (February 24, 2026) — Lathrop GPM is pleased to announce that partners Brian Trinque and Loren Hansen have been shortlisted by Managing Intellectual Property (Managing IP) for two of its top regional practitioner awards. Trinque is shortlisted for Northeast Region Patent Prosecutor of the Year, and Hansen is shortlisted for Midwest Trademark Litigator of the Year.
This year’s recognition is particularly notable as Managing IP significantly restructured its practitioner categories, shifting from state‑based distinctions to broader regional award classifications. This change expands the competitive landscape considerably, placing Trinque and Hansen among a wider field of leading intellectual property practitioners across the Northeast and Midwest regions.
Trinque focuses his practice on U.S. and international patent prosecution, strategic IP portfolio development, and counseling across the chemical arts, with a primary emphasis on pharmaceutical chemistry and additional experience in non‑life‑science technologies. Known for his ability to guide complex innovations through the patent system, Trinque works closely with clients to protect high‑value intellectual property assets and align IP strategy with business goals.
Hansen is a chemical engineer and first‑chair trial lawyer who leads the firm’s IP Litigation practice group. His practice spans all manner of IP disputes, including trademark, patent, copyright and trade secret litigation. Hansen represents clients in industries including agribusiness, renewable energy, software, manufacturing, construction, technology, restaurant, and food and beverage. He regularly tries cases before courts and arbitration panels nationwide and is recognized for his ability to communicate complex technical issues with clarity and precision.
Now in its 21st year, the Managing IP Awards are the most comprehensive and widely respected awards for IP law firms and practitioners. Each year, Managing IP’s research analysts obtain information from thousands of firms, IP practitioners, and their clients through interviews, email, and online surveys. Finalists are evaluated based on work data supplied by firms and publicly available information such as court and IP office records.