My Why

What powers my practice

After starting my career as an engineer, I was drawn to intellectual property law as a way to stay connected to cutting-edge innovation. What I find most fulfilling is when a client brings a non-traditional problem and I can deliver a creative solution—being that go-to person in difficult situations is the most rewarding part of my work. While the day-to-day tasks are important, I’m driven by opportunities that challenge me and allow me to provide excellent client service.

Overview

Nick focuses his patent procurement and portfolio management practice on mechanical and electro-mechanical technologies. In addition to U.S. and international patent prosecution and portfolio strategy, Nick assists clients with due diligence and opinion work. He also conducts freedom to operate searches, provides patentability, invalidity, and infringement analyses, and advises on commercialization and enforcement strategies.

Before entering law school, Nick spent five years working in manufacturing engineering and engineering design at General Electric Aviation. He is a graduate of GE’s Operations Management leadership program. At GE, he gained experience with a number of aerospace technologies, including: cold section airfoils, engine systems, combustors, hot section coatings, engine control systems, and service interval forecasting and pricing. Nick is also proficient in technologies related to automotive technologies, marine engines, GPS systems, engine and generator systems, beverage brewing systems, meat analogue manufacturing technology, pet food dispensing systems, dialysis machines, petroleum well and drilling technology, mining systems, automotive accessories, backup generator systems, lavatories and faucets, and apparel and active wear.

Prior to joining Michael Best, Nick was an associate in the IP practice of a global full-service firm. While attending law school, he worked as a summer associate in the in-house legal department at Kohler Company.

Experience

Solutions in action

Credentials

  • Marquette University Law School, Juris Doctor (J.D.), 2017, Associate Editor for Volume 100, Marquette Law Review, cum laude
  • University of Cincinnati, Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (B.S.M.E.), 2011, cum laude

  • Wisconsin
  • Illinois
  • United States Patent and Trademark Office
  • United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois

  • Best Lawyers® “Ones to Watch” (Milwaukee Area), 2026-present
    • Intellectual Property Law
    • Patent Law

Engagement

  • Member, Illinois Bar Association
  • Member, Wisconsin Bar Association

  • Board Member, Children’s Workshop Preschool and Kindergarten, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

Insights

See Everything