I love seeing new technological developments, and it drives my ambition to work with new companies. As a patent attorney, I enjoy putting together a strategy for protecting a company’s rights to their innovations. I have particular expertise in developing patent portfolios where we analyze new products for innovative features, developing an approach to protect those products or more effectively deter competitors, and then implement and modify that strategy to reflect corporate objectives. As a counselor to my clients, I also address related issues such as contentious matters, litigation, licensing, and monetization.

Emerging growth companies offer the most rewarding work. First, the technology is often cutting edge, and innovation may not be as constrained as in some larger companies. Second, the IP strategies are more meaningful to startup companies. Aside from being an early market mover, it is critical to have a strong IP position against existing and future competitors. It also helps to start a culture of recognizing innovation when the company is young. While many patents and innovations may be considered a commodity at a larger company, the innovations of a startup are often core to their business objectives and require more consideration. I enjoy working with these companies and helping them grow, and it’s rewarding to see my contributions help to gain market share and investments.

My clients range from startups to Fortune 500 companies. My technology focus includes various software, electrical, and mechanical innovations, and especially computer-based technologies, including artificial intelligence and blockchain innovations. I left a leadership position at my previous firm and came to Foley because Foley offers a deeper bench of attorneys that focus on the issues that these companies face. We have formed teams to offer the legal solutions needed by startups, ranging from corporate formation to employee hiring to technology service agreements.

Outside of the office, I occasionally utilize my artistic abilities and paint or draw, but I never quite feel like any particular work is finished. I also enjoy a run outside and bike ride (Peloton) inside, though I never run inside or bike outside.

Admissions

• District of Columbia
• Virginia
• U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
• U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit
• U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia
• U.S. Patent and Trademark Office