PARTNER

James De Vellis

Working with emerging growth companies is really satisfying to me. I appreciate and support the risks that emerging growth companies take in trying to build something new in a competitive landscape, and I have always actively sought to help the underdog. A substantial portion of my time is devoted to serving as an IP mentor for several early stage technology accelerators, giving emerging growth companies the tools they need to build a purposeful and focused IP strategy.

My strategic patent portfolio development practice includes thoughtful preparation and worldwide prosecution of patent applications to build effective IP portfolios for early stage companies. My background is as an electrical engineer, so I work closely with emerging growth companies to help innovators secure both offensive and defensive patent protection, enabling them to operate in their intellectual space on their terms.

I help advance the business objectives of emerging growth companies by developing sustainable patent portfolios and by acting as a check on competitors’ patents that encroach beyond their appropriate boundaries. I work extensively in the areas of electric vehicle technology, batteries and battery system management, cleantech, agtech, autonomous technology, internet services, voice-based devices, medical devices, and other innovative spaces.

One of the reasons I’ve been so happy working at Foley is that our platform supports the needs of emerging growth companies, and enables the integration of patent portfolio development and related counseling with other emerging growth corporate business objectives.

Having lived and worked in Europe as a U.S. patent attorney, and as the son and husband of immigrants with immediate family members living in multiple countries on multiple continents, I understand the importance and benefits of maintaining a diverse, interconnected world.

Both inside and outside the office, I strive to be an active leader and engage in my community. Among other interests and community activities, I serve on the Board of Directors of a Boston based organization whose mission is to foster engagement in international affairs and cooperation with peoples of all nations. In this role, I organize and participate in a significant number of events and activities that hopefully send forth tiny ripples of hope that make the world a better place.

These days, I also enjoy exploring the world through the eyes of my elementary school age son at every opportunity.

Education

  • Northeastern University School of Law (J.D., 2003)
  • University of Connecticut (B.S.E.E., 1998)

Admissions

  • Massachusetts
  • U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit
  • U.S. District Court of Massachusetts