Susan Dierenfeldt-Troy, Esq.
Susan Dierenfeldt-Troy, Esq., is a distinguished intellectual property attorney and partner at Troy & Schwartz, LLC in Miami, Florida, where she combines technical expertise with business-minded legal strategy to support entrepreneurs in navigating complex IP landscapes. Licensed in Florida, Montana, and before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Susan specializes in patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Her professional mission is rooted in providing conscientious, rigorous, empathetic, and diligent representation to each client, guiding innovators with practical, strategic advice while frequently publishing insights on current legal issues affecting startups and small businesses. Before entering law, Susan cultivated a robust scientific career in both academia and industry at Genetics Institute and Baxter Diagnostics. Recognized for her collaborative approach and problem-solving skills, she authored several peer-reviewed publications and led technical teams in bringing R&D concepts to fruition. These experiences laid a foundation for her unique perspective on intellectual property law, particularly in new product development and commercialization, and enables her to advise investors and entrepreneurs on navigating regulatory and commercial challenges. In addition to her legal practice, Susan is deeply committed to education and community service. She has served as a mentor for the University of Miami Launchpad, taught courses on IP principles and legal risk management for startups at Miami-Dade College, and contributed to nonprofit boards including the National Association of Women Business Owners, the South Florida Theatre League, and the Salt Lake City Rape Crisis Center. With over two decades of experience in IP rights procurement, enforcement, and monetization, Susan is recognized not only for her legal acumen but also for her dedication to supporting innovation, entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership. She is also an advocate for animals and the environment.
• St. Thomas University College of Law - JD
• AV Preeminent Rating for Legal Excellence from Martindale Hubble
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the support of my late husband who encouraged me to return to school, which allowed me to change careers and pursue a law degree. I am also in the process of writing my first book, an endeavor that excites me creatively. Above all, I value the work-life balance I have achieved in my current career, which I have been fortunate to build and grow over the past 22 years.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received in both pre-law and legal careers is to keep persevering—if you stay focused and persistent, you can accomplish your goals.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is simple: believe in yourself, stay determined, and never give up. You can achieve your goals if you remain persistent and committed. I would recommend to get real life work experience before attending law school. Law school is expensive, and law is a stressful profession. Having real life experiences will make you a better communicator with clients and others. We are the sum of our life experiences.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities—and challenges—in my field is the ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of my clients. Their needs are always my top priority as I try to provide the guidance and support they require. Entrepreneurship is not for the faint-hearted. My background in R&D as both a researcher and manager of a group of technical professionals enables me to communicate with clients as someone who has been involved in the pressure cooker situation of creating and innovating.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
One of the values most important to me is balancing my career with my commitment to animal rights. I strive to succeed professionally while also dedicating time and energy to causes I care deeply about. As a former care giver to several family members while attending law school and after becoming an attorney, I understand the personal stressors women entrepreneurs and business owners in particular face while trying to juggle many responsibilities. I have been there and if the circumstances with a client are appropriate, I am able to lend an empathetic ear.