
Can you share your journey in the legal profession and what motivated you to make Aliyah to
Israel?
My journey in the legal profession began unexpectedly. I attended engineering school but realized I didn’t want to pursue engineering long-term. I worked on a project studying industrial accidents, which led me to research legal cases in this area. Fascinated by these cases, I initially thought I would become a lawyer specializing in industrial accidents, leveraging my engineering background to help other lawyers understand the technical failures involved. In 1986, I landed a summer job at a patent firm in Washington, D.C. Although I liked the firm, my goal was to join Finnegan. I eventually interviewed with Finnegan, got hired, and have been there ever since.
My move to Israel stemmed from a client conflict at Finnegan. After successfully engaging a multinational smartphone company as a new client, two major competitors asked us to handle multimillion-dollar litigations, each unable to coexist with the smartphone company as our client. I had to inform the smartphone company’s head of IP that we could no longer represent them, a rare and challenging decision. As consolation, I received approval to attempt to develop business in Israel.
By 2009, we visited Israel, attended the Biomed conference in Tel Aviv, and met with numerous companies. We realized that building a presence in Israel required a significant commitment, so from 2010, I traveled to Israel monthly, dedicating almost half the year to cultivating relationships and gaining clients. Our efforts included teaching patent management and strategy courses at the University of Haifa and later at Tel Aviv University.
COVID-19 imposed travel restrictions, and I couldn’t enter Israel for an extended period. During this time, my daughter made Aliyah, allowing me to enter the country under an exception. Eventually, I decided to make Aliyah myself, driven by my love for the country and my established career here. The process took about six months, and I have now settled in Israel permanently. We’ve grown our client base to around 250 Israeli companies by building trust in the Israeli market which required consistent presence and effort.
What is Finnegan Up to Now in Israel?
In response to the global reaction following October 7th, we launched “What’s Next in Israel Tech,” a social media channel dedicated to telling a positive story about Israel by showcasing innovative Israeli startups. Through weekly 90-second videos on LinkedIn and Facebook, we highlight these companies’ technological advancements, fundraising efforts, and the excitement surrounding their ventures. This initiative not only informs the legal community about emerging opportunities but also aims to attract venture capital to support Israel’s vibrant tech ecosystem during challenging times.
QR code to get to the What’s Next in Israel Tech page.

How has being in Israel influenced the dynamics of your business, particularly in navigating international legal frameworks and cultural differences, compared to operating directly within the US?
In Israel, companies are highly cost-efficient and cautious with spending. A US startup engaged us after one call, whereas an Israeli startup, despite having funds, took eight months to decide. Israeli CEOs are deeply involved in their businesses, demonstrating remarkable ingenuity. For instance, one CEO swiftly developed a new machine for a different product design within three weeks, showcasing Israeli’s unique “can-do” attitude and ability to innovate quickly and cost-effectively. This cultural difference has challenged us to adapt and appreciate the distinctive strengths of Israeli businesses.
What were some of the most significant cultural challenges you faced in Israel, personally and professionally, after your immigration?
One of the things about Israel that really took me by surprise is how interconnected everyone is. I went to an early-stage business development meeting in Haifa one day and talked to the IP manager at the company. Then the next day, I was meeting with a company down near Yavna, all the way across the country in the south. In the middle of the meeting, I said something offhandedly about Haifa, and he said “Oh, yeah, you met with “Debbie”, yesterday in Haifa.” That was a personal meeting I had with her, but he knew that I had that meeting. Everybody knows what’s going on.
Another time, I called a meeting with my Israel team, including some contractors, at a coffee shop in Netanya. Twenty minutes into the meeting, someone pulled up a chair at our table and said, “I have some advice for you guys.” He explained that he was a patent attorney who lived nearby. While he was working at home, someone told him that the Finnegan team was meeting at a coffee shop in Netanya. So, he decided to come over to share his thoughts. This is Israel: everyone knows everyone else’s business. It’s like one big family. When you’re working here, you must be transparent because everyone will know what you’re doing with other companies anyway.
Based on your experience, what advice would you give to other lawyers contemplating making Aliyah and continuing their legal careers in Israel?
If you’re a lawyer from a foreign firm considering Aliyah and continuing your legal career in Israel, here’s some advice based on my experience:
Commitment to the market: Dedicate yourself to the Israeli market as local companies do. Regular travel to Israel or making Aliyah shows commitment.
Cost Efficiency: Price your services competitively. Israeli companies prioritize cost-effectiveness.
Visibility: Maintain a consistent presence in the marketplace. Face-to-face interactions are crucial; being out of sight means being out of mind.
Follow-Up: Regularly follow up with prospects and maintain relationships. This is vital for long-term success.
Establish a Permanent Presence: Consider being on the ground in Israel. It significantly enhances your ability to build a successful practice.
Building a successful practice in Israel demands dedication, visibility, and strong relationships. Active engagement in the local market is essential.
Thank you, Gerson, for sharing your personal Aliyah journey!
If you are an attorney who made Aliyah, please pitch us your story and contact office@robus.co.il