2019 Annual Meeting January 2020

Mental health issues and substance use disorders can affect any practitioner, in any setting, and at any time. Left untreated, they can destroy careers and lives. This program will discuss where the legal profession currently stands in relation to the substantial challenges presented by untreated mental health issues and substance use disorders and examine the nexus between ethical competence under the USPTO Rules of Professional Conduct and practitioner well-being. This program will educate attendees on how to recognize the signs of an impaired attorney, how to approach the colleague and begin a conversation, and discuss the possible disciplinary and professional liability implications of an impaired practitioner’s conduct. In addition, the speakers will present best practices/effective risk management strategies, preventative measures, and proposed policy and well-being initiatives, that practitioners in any practice setting may implement to protect clients, themselves, and other firm members as well as save careers.

This in-person bootcamp is designed to provide practical insights and strategies for professionals working in intellectual property transactions. The day features a comprehensive agenda including: Panels and CLE Sessions: Learn about Working with Tech Transfer Offices, Strategies for successful collaborations between nonprofits and industry, and Protecting and monetizing an AI asset. Drafting and Negotiating Tips: Get practical advice on drafting and negotiating strategic collaboration and license agreements. Hands-on Workshop: Participate in a Mock licensing negotiation to put your skills to the test. Networking: Conclude the day with a dedicated Networking reception.

The 2026 Patent Prosecution Bootcamp is a comprehensive, CLE-accredited seminar that includes instructional lecture-style sessions with practical tips on U.S. and international patent preparation and prosecution, as well as hands-on interactive workshops that will walk you through drafting claims and responding to office actions.

The Advanced Chemical & Biotech Patent Institute is an in-depth continuing legal education program tailored specifically for experienced patent practitioners in the chemical and biotech fields. This advanced course offers a comprehensive view from both prosecution and litigation perspectives, covering crucial topics relevant to practice in the U.S. and internationally.