Theresa Wang Takes the Helm as Managing Shareholder at Stokes Lawrence

·  Theresa Wang is the new managing shareholder at Stokes Lawrence, supported by Karla Farina (CFO) and Jennifer Porto (COO).

·  Under Noonan, the firm doubled revenue, grew to 56 lawyers, and earned recognition for gender diversity and growth.

Stokes Lawrence in Seattle announced today that Theresa Wang has been named managing shareholder, succeeding Kelly Twiss Noonan, who led for over 20 years. Theresa, a distinguished intellectual property litigator, will continue her practice. She will be supported by Karla Farina, chief financial officer, and Jennifer Porto, the firm’s first chief operating officer. Both were appointed late last year to assist with the leadership transition, overseeing a firm certified as majority women-owned since 2020.

“I’m honored to lead a firm that lives by rare values—including a genuine commitment to transparency, talent development, and independence—all of which are driving our present robust growth,” said Wang. “I am incredibly grateful to Kelly for over 20 years of bold leadership and incredible success. This leadership transition reflects the thoughtful, long-term planning that Stokes Lawrence applies to our people's careers and our client relationships, positioning everyone involved for success.”

Wang joined Stokes Lawrence as a junior associate 16 years ago, protecting IP portfolios for software developers and clients globally. Chambers USA nationally recognizes her as, The Best Lawyer in America®, World Trademark Review 1000, and Washington Super Lawyers, among others. With less than 20 years in her legal career, Wang represents a firm where more than half of engagements are led by attorneys under 50.

Kelly Twiss Noonan, who retired from the firm in December stated, “I could not be more confident in Theresa’s ability to build on the strong foundation at Stokes Lawrence and use her fresh perspective to drive further growth at the firm. With the investment in a well-qualified C-Suite to support Theresa in her management responsibilities, the firm is poised for continued success. I cannot wait to watch it.”

Under Noonan’s leadership, the firm became majority women-owned, with women making up over 60% of equity shareholders. Revenue doubled, and the firm grew from 29 to 56 lawyers. It earned recognition as one of Puget Sound Business Journal’s Top 100 Fastest-Growing Private Companies and ranked among Law360 Pulse’s Ceiling Smashers for gender diversity.