Developing Strategic Patent Portfolios for Start-ups: Tips and Strategies Explored
Technology startups stand to benefit from patents in the form of protection against competitors, increased valuations, and increased ability to obtain funding. Yet startups face many challenges when seeking patent protection, including resource constraints, lack of internal expertise and business processes, and lack of consistency and clarity in the law of patent eligibility since the Supreme Court’s notable rulings in Alice and Mayo. Moreover, the judicial abstract idea exception of patent eligibility under 35 U.S.C. § 101 continues to impair patent incentives and poses concerns about protecting investments in technology-related inventions.
To thrive amidst uncertainties and the constant pressures facing startups, such companies should be well-versed in any developments surrounding patent laws and best practices to successfully navigate through legal complexities, build sound patent portfolios, and recognize common pitfalls which could result in long-term repercussions.
Join experienced patent attorneys Robert Plotkin (Blueshift IP) and Mehdi Sheikerz (Staas & Halsey LLP) as they provide a comprehensive discussion of the latest trends and developments surrounding patent laws. Speakers, among other things, will also offer practical tips and strategies for managing patent portfolios for startups.
Live and Recorded CLE & CPE Webcasts in the Legal, Tax, Finance, Risk, Compliance and Human Resources Industries
Founded in November 2006, The Knowledge Group has established itself as a premier eLearning hub for Continuing Legal Education (CLE), Continuing Professional Education (CPE), and technology-focused webcasts. We equip lawyers, accountants, and industry professionals with expert-driven insights, timely regulatory updates, and practical strategies to help them stay ahead in an ever-evolving landscape.
Software Patent Lawyer & Founding Partner at Blueshift IP, LLC
Robert Plotkin is a patent attorney who has been specializing in software patents for over 25 years. He is an MIT-educated computer scientist and the co-founder of the boutique patent firm, Blueshift IP. Robert wrote the first and only book on the impact of AI on patents, entitled, The Genie in the Machine: How Computer-Automated Inventing is Revolutionizing Law and Business, which was published by Stanford University Press in 2009. His most recent book, AI Armor, describes strategies for obtaining IP protection for innovative AI technologies. Robert uses his in-depth knowledge of patent law and AI technology to obtain broad, strong, and defensible AI patents for his clients worldwide.
Partner Experienced Patent Attorney and Patent Portfolio Strategist Staas & Halsey LLP
Mehdi Sheikerz is a partner with the Washington, D.C. law firm of Staas & Halsey LLP. Mr. Sheikerz focuses on and has extensive experience in preparing and prosecuting patent applications relating to computer software in the U.S. and internationally. Mr. Sheikerz also advises clients on design patent, trademark and copyright related matters, including preparation and prosecution of design patent, trademark and copyright applications. Mr. Sheikerz conducts presentations on intellectual property solutions, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights for clients. Mr. Sheikerz has software industry experience. After graduating from Virginia Tech with a Computer Science degree, and before attending law school, Mr. Sheikerz was a software programmer for over 4 years. Mr. Sheikerz developed telecommunication messaging system software for Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC) (now DXC Technology) in northern Virginia and worked for a number of small business software consulting companies, including as a Lotus Notes consultant.
