Welcome to the latest instalment of Managing IP’s ‘Five minutes with’ series, where we learn more about intellectual property practitioners, or those working in the IP profession, on a personal and professional level. This time, we meet Monika Żuraw, founder of Żuraw & Partners in Poland.
Someone asks you at a party what you do for a living—what do you say?
Being honest, such questions are relatively rare at parties. If somebody asks, I just say that I am a lawyer, which sometimes surprises people. They say I am different from the standard, whatever that means. For those more interested, I give more details about IP, which is still quite a niche in Poland.
Tell us about a typical working day.
I'm an early bird — my day starts with action. Before heading to the office, I’m already sorting emails with a coffee in hand, my dog in my lap, setting priorities and getting a clear view of the day ahead.
Work is an inevitable mix of solid structure and what the day brings. On one side, the business: team meetings, client calls, pleadings, and courtroom visits. On the other side, the knowledge: reviewing cases and looking for new ideas. No two days are ever the same — and that’s exactly how I like it.
Evenings are usually short but only for me. That’s when I recharge — time with family, long walks with my dog, workouts and exercises, or simply cooking something tasty or watching Netflix.
What are you working on at the moment?
Two big cases are coming to a close.
The first is the successful conclusion of a complex, high-stakes negotiation, resolving a long-standing court dispute over the external appearance of an FMCG product that my foreign client had been involved in for years. It was a challenging process, but a satisfying one — turning conflict into closure.
The second involves the monetisation of a global trademark portfolio our firm has been developing for a Polish Client. The transaction is currently being finalised, and it represents not just legal protection, but real commercial value built on strong IP foundations.
Does one big piece of work usually take priority or are you juggling multiple things at once?
Well, I’m running a boutique law firm, which means wearing many hats — and I thrive in that environment. Multitasking across urgent matters, shifting priorities, and meeting diverse client expectations is part of my daily rhythm. I’m naturally drawn to complex, multi-layered projects. That’s where I do my best work. But even in the middle of a tough case, I never lose sight of what truly matters: delivering high-quality, thoughtful legal service, every time, and this covers all facets of the business, even the smallest ones.
What is the most exciting aspect of your work and the most stressful?
What excites me most? The creativity. The challenge of solving what seems unsolvable. I often take on projects that others walk away from — complex situations that look beyond repair. I dig in, unravel the details piece by piece, and work toward outcomes. There’s no better feeling than turning a legal knot into a strategic win.
What’s the most stressful? The courts. Not the pressure — but the unpredictability. The slow pace, the procedural delays, and sometimes, the lack of familiarity with IP matters can be frustrating. When you care deeply about the nuances of IP, it’s hard to watch it misunderstood or undervalued.
What key characteristics make a successful IP practitioner?
A broad, vision-driven mindset — one that sees not just the legal issue at hand, but the bigger picture behind it. Anticipating needs before they are voiced, and building solutions where none seem to exist. Also, creativity, strategic thinking and deep involvement in the clients’ businesses. Constant growth and being one step ahead are also important.
What is the most common misconception about IP?
’IP is something we can go into later.’ Wrong. It should be part of your foundation, not an option for an unknown future. Too many companies still wait until they are well-established or the project has just launched to think about IP. By then, it’s often too late or far more expensive.
What or who inspires you?
I admire people who are determined and dedicated — not just in business, but in whatever they do, as well as those who aren't afraid to fail. They know how to turn failure into insight and setbacks into fine conclusions.
If you weren’t in IP, what would you be doing?
If I weren’t a lawyer, I’m sure I’d still be supporting people — psychologically or pedagogically – through guidance, listening, or simply through being present. Helping others grow and unlock their potential was always meaningful to me. I believe support can make a real difference — in business, in life, and everywhere in between.
What advice would you give your younger self?
Always follow your heart and trust your inner voice. Above all, be true to who you are.
What is your motto in life?
You are a free soul, no matter what life brings. Stay true to yourself and always respect others. Be grateful.
