About Patrick Richards
My Approach
I really enjoy working with my clients to help them accomplish their goals. One of my primary intentions with Richards Patent Law is to eliminate the obstacles in the attorney-client relationships and improve my client communications.
In my practice, I focus on developing and implementing intellectual property strategies for growing businesses, particularly small and mid-size businesses and entrepreneurs. I use my expertise in patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets to protect IP assets with an eye towards nurturing growth and long-term success.
I am committed to meeting the needs of my clients. Richards Patent Law is structured to deliver the best IP services and the highest level of client satisfaction.
I am often recommended to new clients based on my strong legal and technological credentials, but I am most proud of the number of clients that refer me to others based on my commitment to their long-term interests.
My Background
Prior to starting Richards Patent Law in 2009, I spent over eight years as a patent attorney with McDermott Will & Emery LLP, a large international general practice law firm in Chicago. As a partner in the Intellectual Property, Media and Technology group, I managed international patent portfolios for several large corporations, as well as a number of small and medium sized businesses.
In addition to my extensive patent prosecution experience across many technological fields, I have counseled numerous clients on matters concerning: patent portfolio acquisition and management; patent portfolio licenses, sales and purchases; joint development agreements; freedom to practice opinions; patentability opinions; non-infringement opinions; enforceability opinions; and employment and non-compete agreements.
I earned a JD from the University of Virginia, School of Law and a BS in civil engineering, with honors, from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign. I am admitted to practice before the courts of Illinois and the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. I also am a registered patent attorney with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. I was named as an Illinois Super Lawyer Rising Star in 2012.
Representative Technologies
I have extensive patent experience spanning a broad range of complex technologies. The following are representative examples of areas of technology within which I have managed patent matters:
Software
- iPhone and mobile apps
- trading systems
- audio processing software
- financial services and investments
- relationship management systems
- business method patents
Electrical Systems
- wireless networks
- electronic control systems
- security systems
- automated advertising systems
Medical Devices
- surgical instruments
- home use medical products
- dental products
Green Technology and Sustainable Technology Patents
Electromechanical Systems
- gaming devices
- automotive systems
- railcar systems
- loudspeakers
Mechanical Systems
- athletic equipment
- machining and tooling systems
- construction equipment
- musical products
Plastic Packaging
- injection molding systems
- extrusion systems
- product packaging
Chemical Products
- electrolytic compositions
- polymeric materials
