My Why

What powers my practice

I was considering becoming a doctor, but a conversation with my mother in seventh grade—where she reminded me that doctors protect health while lawyers protect freedom—inspired me to pursue law instead. I find the greatest satisfaction in winning trials and helping clients solve complex problems, and I am energized by the teamwork it takes to prepare and execute a successful strategy. In my work, I focus on fostering collaboration by leveraging the strengths of both clients and colleagues, always aiming to solve my clients’ problems thoughtfully and efficiently.

Credentials

  • Harvard Law School, Juris Doctor (J.D.), Member, Harvard Legal Aid Bureau, 1983, cum laude
  • University of Chicago, Bachelor of Science (B.S.), Chemistry, Phi Beta Kappa, 1980, cum laude

  • Illinois
  • United States Patent and Trademark Office
  • United States Court of Appeals, Federal Circuit
  • United States Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit
  • United States Court of Federal Claims
  • United States District Court, District of Colorado
  • United States District Court, Northern District of Illinois
  • United States District Court, Northern District of Indiana
  • United States District Court, Eastern District of Michigan
  • United States District Court, Western District of Michigan
  • United States District Court, Western District of Wisconsin

  • The Midwest’s Best Lawyers©, Patent Law, 2021
  • Named Rotarian of the Year by the Rotary International District 6450, Inc., 2019-2020
  • Best Lawyers®, Patent Law, 2016-Present
  • Selected to Intellectual Property Litigation, Intellectual Property Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers®, 2012-2024

Engagement

  • Member, Federal Circuit Bar Association
  • Member, American Intellectual Property Law Association
  • Member, Intellectual Property Law Association of Chicago
  • Member, American Bar Association, Litigation, Intellectual Property and Antitrust Law Sections
  • Member, Illinois State Bar Association, Former Chair, Antitrust and Unfair Competition Section Council
  • Member, Chicago Bar Association

  • President, Rotary Club of Chicago, 2019-2020; Member, 2010-present; Member, Board of Directors and Service Chair, 2012-Present
  • Member, Downers Grove Rotary Club, 1999-2010
  • Member, Downers Grove, IL Elementary School District 58 Board of Education, 2001-2009; Vice President, Chair of Policy Committee, 2005-2009
  • Member, Board of Control of SAED, DuPage County special education cooperative, 2001-2009; Chair of Board, 2007-2009

Insights

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