Prior to beginning his own practice in 1999, Mr. Pelton reviewed trademark applications as an Attorney for the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Mr. Pelton's extensive experience at the U.S.P.T.O. included writing appellate briefs and statutory refusals of trademark registrations, and researching trademark law. Building upon his experience and recognizing the rising value of trademark protection in the information age, Mr. Pelton launched the firm to provide affordable legal assistance for small businesses in need of trademark protection. Since then, Mr. Pelton's counsel has helped build and sustain strong brands for hundreds of Internet ventures, software companies, inventors, restaurants, and small businesses across the U.S. and abroad.

Erik M. Pelton & Associates has registered more than 4,500 trademarks on behalf of its clients and has represented dozens of companies in trademark disputes.

From 2020 to 2024, Erik served Adjunct Professor & Trademark Clinic Supervisor at the Howard University School of Law, leading the clinics work with pro bono small business clients.

Since 2024, Erik has taught the Trademark & Unfair Competition at Georgetown Law.