My Why

What powers my practice

As an engineer, I was introduced to the area of product liability and patent law and found it to be technically interesting and intellectually challenging. That experience led me to a career path that leverages my engineering skills to help solve problems in a new context. I am most fulfilled when I help clients launch new product lines by either designing around a competitor’s patent or challenging that patent’s validity. I hope people realize that patent practice is not just filing patent applications or suing for infringement. Much of our work is helping clients manage the risks of bringing new products to market while protecting the value of their development technology.

Credentials

  • University of Wisconsin Law School, Juris Doctor (J.D.), 1992
  • University of Wisconsin - Madison, Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Mechanical Engineering, 1986

  • Wisconsin
  • United States Patent and Trademark Office
  • United States Court of Appeals, Federal Circuit

  • Notable Intellectual Property Attorney, BizTimes Media, 2024
  • Lexology Client Choice Award, Intellectual Property – Patents, 2017
  • IP Stars, Managing Intellectual Property magazine, 2015-present
  • Leading Intellectual Property Lawyer, Chambers USA, 2013-present
  • Best Lawyers®, Litigation – Patent; Patent Law, 2011-present
  • The Midwest’s Best Lawyers©, Litigation – Patent, Patent Law, 2021
  • AV Preeminent® rated, Martindale-Hubbell, 2005-present

Engagement

  • Member, American Bar Association
  • Member, Wisconsin Bar Association
  • Member, American Intellectual Property Law Association
  • Member, PTAB Bar Association

  • Leadership Circle, Democracy Found
  • Board of Directors, Past President, Milwaukee Curling Club
  • Razor Sharp Minds Foundation
  • Past Chair & Past Steering Committee, Black-N-Blue Ball for Muscular Dystrophy Association