Many IP-focused firms have come and gone over the last 20 years, but Fish & Richardson is one of a handful that has continually thrived. Now, for the first time this century, the firm is gearing up for new leadership.

The Boston-based global intellectual property firm announced Friday that CEO Peter Devlin will be handing over the reins next month. Firm management has nominated Minneapolis principal John Adkisson to succeed him, subject to a vote of the firm’s principals next month.