Taniel E. Anderson

Partner

Tan is a trial attorney focusing on complex, technical litigation.

Tan Anderson, Partner, ArentFox Schiff

As a nuclear engineer with years of hands-on experience, Tan has broad technical experience in electrical, mechanical, nuclear, chemical, and systems engineering. 

Tan has extensive experience in patent and IP litigation, including representing Puritan Medical Products, Sabinsa Corp., Apotex Inc., Par Pharmaceutical Inc., Petrobras S.A., Diesel S.p.A., and JC Penney Co.

Understanding the interplay of regulatory and legal issues, Tan takes a creative approach to litigation, disputes, and investigations so he can respond quickly and accurately to maintain the high-speed nature of clients’ business.

Client Work

Tan has represented clients in matters involving a variety of technologies in courts throughout the country. At trial, Tan’s experience ranges from pharmaceutical products to bulk welding wire. He has successfully litigated and tried cases in US District Courts, the US International Trade Commission, state courts, and the OSH Review Commission.

Tan’s patent litigation experience has included all phases of litigation, including counseling, pleadings, discovery, experts, hearings, trials, and appeals. Tan also has experience representing petroleum refineries in PSM compliance, NEP inspections, and RMP-DOJ enforcement, among other areas. His language skills have allowed him to communicate directly with personnel at a Brazilian-owned refinery in Portuguese. Tan successfully represented a client charged with violating a nuclear export-control statute in a criminal case.

Previous Work

Prior to joining ArentFox Schiff, Tan was an intern for the Honorable Wallace W. Dixon, Middle District of North Carolina (2008 – 2009) and the Honorable J. Douglas McCullough, North Carolina Court of Appeals (2008).

Before law school, Tan served as a nuclear submarine officer aboard the USS Nevada, where he completed five strategic-deterrent patrols. During his service, Tan gained experience in the operation, maintenance, and overhaul of complex technical systems, including nuclear power generation, steam power, hydraulics, compressed air, chemistry, radiation, and electrical power generation and distribution.

Professional Activities

Tan is the DC Vice Chair of the Pro Bono Committee and the Co-Chair of the AFS Veteran’s Group.

Publications, Presentations & Recognitions

  • “Trade Secret Litigation in the US, Civil and Criminal,” Zhong Lun Law Firm (Oct. 18, 2024)

  • “Intellectual Property Protection: The Value of Patents, Trademarks & Copyrights to Your Business” How to Prepare: Veterans Venture Bootcamp; Washington, DC; October 2013

  • Super Lawyers “Rising Star” (2014-2018)

Celebrating ArentFox Schiff’s Veterans: Tan Anderson on Going From Military Service to Client Service

Tan served in the US Navy for 10 years, ending his career as a Lieutenant Commander with distinction. After completing patrols on a nuclear submarine, Tan moved to reserve duty. He served with the Office of Naval Research and Naval Research Lab as a science & technology liaison officer.

Read more

Perspectives