Intellectual Property Section

Message from the Chair

I’m happy to report that the FBA Intellectual Property Section is off to a great start in 2012. We continue to receive a steady stream of excellent, thought-provoking submissions for the IP Legal Browser. This edition includes articles covering current hot topics in IP law—including the battle over SOPA and online piracy legislation—and recent developments in Hatch-Waxman litigation, copyright, and venue in patent cases. Please keep those article ideas coming.

In addition to our ongoing work on the IP Legal Browser, the section has also been involved in a number of exciting programs and events this year.

In January, the IP Section co-sponsored a panel discussion on patent claim construction with the Massachusetts Chapter of the FBA. At the event, U.S. District Judge Douglas P. Woodlock of the District of Massachusetts led an interactive discussion with the bar. He provided practical tips for claim construction (Markman) hearings, including his thoughts on the use of technology tutorials, live witnesses, and experts. He also discussed mistakes made by attorneys (and judges) during these proceedings.

Also in January, together with the Younger Lawyers Division of the FBA, Southern District of New York Chapter, the IP Section co-sponsored the 2nd annual “Art, Law, & Beer” event at Gallery Henoch in New York. Artist Richard Combes discussed his process, influences, and technique, and attorney Theodore C. Max lectured on copyright law and fair use. Beer expert Daniel Fisher then hosted a remarkable beer tasting while everyone enjoyed catching up, networking, and viewing the gallery. A special thank you to Michael J. Zussman from Zussman Law PLLC for putting together this event.

In February, the IP Section co-sponsored an FBA membership drive at the historic Bell-in-Hand Tavern in Boston. The event was well attended by Boston-area law students, new associates, and law clerks. Everyone enjoyed some great food and drink and the opportunity to meet other young lawyers in the area and learn about what the FBA and the IP Section have to offer. The IP Section came away with several new members.

As we move through the year, please remember that the IP Section is driven by its membership. If you have an idea for an event you would like to put on, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are more than happy to consider any and all ideas for programming and events. In most cases, the IP Section is in a position to co-sponsor events and provide logistical support and funding.

Finally, it’s not too early to start making plans to attend this year’s FBA Annual Meeting, scheduled for Sept. 19-20, 2012, in sunny San Diego, Calif. Please visit the convention website. In addition to the great events already planned for the meeting, the IP Section is planning to host a section event as well. We’d love to see you there.

Sincerely,
Jack C. Schecter
Chair