William “Taylor” McCarty is an associate in Merchant’s Knoxville office whose practice focuses on patent prosecutionand technology-focused litigation and enforcement matters. As a registered patent attorney, Taylor represents individual inventors, startups, and domestic and international companies in securing and enforcing intellectual property rights. While his practice primarily involves mechanical and electrical technologies, Taylor’s broad technical background allows him to work across multiple industries and develop practical, business-focused solutions tailored to each client’s needs.
Taylor’s practice includes preparing and prosecuting patent applications across a variety of technologies, counseling clients on portfolio development and protection strategies, and representing clients in patent, trademark, and copyright disputes. His litigation and enforcement experience includes pre-suit strategy, federal litigation, cease-and-desist matters, and alternative enforcement mechanisms such as online marketplace and internet takedown procedures. He works with clients ranging from first-time inventors to established businesses seeking to protect and maximize the value of their innovations and brands.
Advocacy-Driven Counsel Backed by Technical Experience
With a background in mechanical engineering and litigation advocacy, Taylor approaches clients’ needs with technical precision and a practical understanding of dispute resolution. His experience in intellectual property enforcement and litigation informs his prosecution practice, allowing him to develop and implement protection strategies designed to strengthen and defend valuable innovations.
Taylor graduated summa cum laude from Tennessee Technological University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He later graduated at the top of his class from Lincoln Memorial University Duncan School of Law, where he served as President of the Mock Trial Board and competed nationally in trial advocacy competitions.
Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Innovation
Born and raised in Sevier County, Tennessee, Taylor values building long-term relationships with clients and helping innovators navigate the evolving landscape of technology, business, and intellectual property protection. Outside the office, Taylor enjoys traveling, hiking, and backpacking, and has explored much of the Great Smoky Mountains and Rocky Mountains on extended backpacking trips. His appreciation for preparation, adaptability, and problem-solving in unfamiliar terrain mirrors the practical, strategic approach he brings to helping clients navigate complex intellectual property matters. He also enjoys tennis, distance running, and strength training, pursuits that reflect the discipline and competitive mindset he brings to his practice.