John C. Gatz

John Gatz is a patent attorney who concentrates his practice on patent prosecution, patent counseling and patent litigation. John has extensive experience in the life sciences and manufacturing industries.

My focusPatent Prosecution/Counseling

I prosecute patents and counsel clients in a number of mechanical- and chemical-related technologies including: biomechanical devices, chemical products and processes, sensor-dispensing instruments, analyte meters, test sensors, non-invasive processes, surgical and medical products, lancing devices, closure and closure systems, coin- and currency- processing machines, stretch-film products and processes, epoxy compositions, coatings, foam products and processes, gaming devices, herbicides, silicon-based compositions and methods, window-cleaning apparatuses, packaging devices, and optical devices.

I really enjoy using my engineering background to help clients in the product development process to avoid competitive patents and to ensure commercial success of new products through effective intellectual property (IP) protection strategies. In many instances, these projects have involved infringement, invalidity and due diligence opinions. I work closely with clients in providing comprehensive patent and patent portfolio review. Understanding my client’s businesses and providing great client service are priorities in my everyday practice.

Patent Litigation/Other Experiences

My patent litigation experience includes drafting motions and pretrial documents; arguing motions, including Markman; taking and defending depositions; and all other facets of discovery. I’ve handled cases in a variety of federal district courts and I’ve handled various proceedings before the Board of Patent Appeals and Interferences. I have prepared and filed IPR petitions. I also have experience drafting and negotiating license agreements and trademark prosecution.

Looking aheadI see a constant evolution of IP patent laws both domestically and internationally where our strategies will anticipate and adjust to better obtain the business objectives of our clients.