Yvonne Tang, the director of intellectual property practice at Drew & Napier, has been named one of ALB Asia's Top 15 Female Lawyers for 2023. These women are shaping Asia's legal landscape and paving the way for others.
Congratulations on being named one of Asia’s Top 15 Female Lawyers! What are some of the cases or accomplishments that you would like to highlight to our readers?
My most memorable case was one where we successfully acted for a statutory body in a copyright infringement suit. The matter concerned many interesting and unusual points of law. As a junior lawyer then, I was privileged to work on the case from the District Court, up to the High Court and eventually the Court of Appeal. It was an invaluable learning experience, and cemented my love for Intellectual Property law. The matter was named one of the “Landmark Cases of the Year” by a legal publication then.
The most rewarding case was a “David & Goliath” matter, where I acted for an individual in defending a trade mark opposition action brought by a giant fashion house. The odds were stacked against the client. Motivated, to delve even deeper into legal research and the evidence at hand for the client, a successful outcome was achieved. Today, the client’s products are freely available and sold in Singapore.
Considering your recognition accomplishments, how do you advocate for gender equality and empower other women in the legal field?
Although as a society we have come a long way in improving gender equality over the years, it remains a “work-in-progress” item. Recognition (such as an award like this, recognizing the efforts of female lawyers) is an important first step in validating an individual’s efforts. In addition to recognition and validation, opportunities are equally, if not more, important to have. With these, women can be empowered and motivated to maximise their potential and achieve so much more in their respective legal fields.
As a role model for aspiring female lawyers, what advice would you give to those who are looking to excel in the legal profession and make a positive impact in their communities?
The legal profession can be a tough and gruelling one. However, never give up, or lose your passion, or let anyone tell you that, as a woman, you are less capable, or will not succeed. We all encounter positive influences throughout our lives. As a beneficiary myself, I know that a supportive firm culture and environment makes all the difference to one’s legal career. Whenever the opportunity arises, pay it forward. It always adds up!
