Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.9, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Thomas Horstemeyer ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://thip.law/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Insights](https://thip.law/insights/) - news & insights Keeping on top of the latest laws and technological advances is part of our everyday jobs. Our collaborative environment allows for efficient knowledge transfer. Thomas Horstemeyer Insight Featured in Chambers and Partners Intellectual Property 2026 Guide Partner John Lyon has contributed to the 2026 edition of the Chambers and Partners Intellectual Property - [The Design Patent Bar](https://thip.law/insights/the-design-patent-bar/) - On November 16, 2023, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) announced a rule that will allow individuals with a design background to practice before the USPTO. Specifically, the rule announces that persons can now sit for the patent bar when they have a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree in the field of:Industrial Design;Product - [USPTO Publishes Supplemental Guidance for Designs of Graphic User Interfaces](https://thip.law/insights/uspto-publishes-supplemental-guidance-for-designs-of-graphic-user-interfaces/) - The USPTO has published supplemental guidance for examining design patent applications of Graphic User Interfaces (GUIs)On November 17, 2023, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) published supplemental guidance on how design patents “related to Computer-Generated Electronic Images, Including Computer-Generated Icons and Graphical User Interfaces” should be examined. Under the supplemental guidance, the USPTO has - [Thomas Horstemeyer Insight Featured in Chambers and Partners Intellectual Property 2026 Guide](https://thip.law/insights/thomas-horstemeyer-insight-featured-in-chambers-and-partners-intellectual-property-2026-guide/) - Partner John Lyon has contributed to the 2026 edition of the Chambers and Partners Intellectual Property Trends & Developments Guide for Georgia, providing analysis on recent developments in design patent law.The article focuses on the Federal Circuit’s decision in LKQ v. GM and its impact on how design patent obviousness is evaluated. It outlines the - [USPTO Shortens Cutoff for Lower Petition Fees From Two Years to One Year](https://thip.law/insights/uspto-shortens-cutoff-for-lower-petition-fees-from-two-years-to-one-year/) - The USPTO announced they are shortening the time period for delays in patent actions that require justification and higher petition fees, in an update to rule 37 CFR 1.17(m).The final rule action, published on June 24, 2026, will require additional information and higher fees for petitions filed more than one year after the patent action - [The Legal 500 United States 2026 Recognizes Thomas Horstemeyer's Patent Prosecution Practice](https://thip.law/insights/the-legal-500-united-states-2026-recognizes-thomas-horstemeyers-patent-prosecution-practice/) - Thomas Horstemeyer, LLP has been nationally ranked in The Legal 500 United States 2026 edition, earning a Tier 4 ranking for Patents: Prosecution (including re-examination and post-grant proceedings).The Legal 500 is a globally recognized legal directory that has evaluated law firms and attorneys for almost 40 years. Their rigorous research process includes client and peer - [Chambers USA Guide 2026 Ranks Thomas Horstemeyer Among Leading Intellectual Property Practices in Georgia](https://thip.law/insights/chambers-usa-guide-2026-ranks-thomas-horstemeyer-among-leading-intellectual-property-practices-in-georgia/) - Thomas Horstemeyer, LLP has been recognized in the Chambers USA Guide 2026, earning a Band 5 ranking for Intellectual Property in Georgia.In a highly competitive field that includes many large national and international law firms, this recognition underscores the strength of the firm’s intellectual property practice. As a boutique firm, Thomas Horstemeyer continues to deliver - [Thomas Horstemeyer Recognized in IAM Patent 1000 2026](https://thip.law/insights/thomas-horstemeyer-recognized-in-iam-patent-1000-2026/) - Thomas Horstemeyer, LLP has been recognized in the 2026 IAM Patent 1000, earning a Silver ranking in Georgia for patent prosecution.The ranking highlights the firm’s reputation as a trusted intellectual property boutique known for delivering strategic, detail-oriented, and commercially focused counsel to protect clients’ innovations.The IAM Patent 1000 guide identifies “the world’s leading patent service - [2026 INTA Roundtable: Beyond Trademarks - Other IP Enforcement Tools for Your Brand](https://thip.law/insights/2026-inta-roundtable-beyond-trademarks-other-ip-enforcement-tools-for-your-brand/) - Thomas Horstemeyer, LLP will host the International Trademark Association’s (INTA) 2026 North America Roundtable (NART) on June 16th. Join our partners Todd Deveau, John Lyon, and Lani Burt for their session “Beyond Trademarks – Other IP Enforcement Tools for Your Brand.”Space is limited to 12 participants. Advance registration is required. CLE credit is not offered - [Seven Thomas Horstemeyer Attorneys Recognized in The Legal 500 US City Elite 2026](https://thip.law/insights/seven-thomas-horstemeyer-attorneys-recognized-in-the-legal-500-us-city-elite-2026/) - Thomas Horstemeyer, LLP is proud to announce that 7 partners have received a ranking in the inaugural edition of The Legal 500 US City Elite – Atlanta: Intellectual Property.The Legal 500 US Elite is a city-focused ranking designed to recognize outstanding lawyers operating at the top of their local and regional markets across the United - [Thomas Horstemeyer Named in Chambers USA Spotlight Guide 2026](https://thip.law/insights/thomas-horstemeyer-named-in-chambers-usa-spotlight-guide-2026/) - Thomas Horstemeyer, LLP has been ranked in the inaugural Chambers USA Spotlight Georgia Guide as a leading boutique firm with expertise in Intellectual Property. The Chambers USA Spotlight Guide is a regional ranking that champions top boutique and mid-size firms that deliver partner-level attention, deep regional knowledge, and cost-effective solutions for sophisticated legal work, providing a credible alternative - [Thomas Horstemeyer Recognized in Juristat's Top Patent Firms 2025](https://thip.law/insights/thomas-horstemeyer-recognized-in-juristats-top-patent-firms-2025/) - Thomas Horstemeyer, LLP has been recognized in Juristat’s 2025 edition of Top Patent Firms in the United States. This data-driven ranking highlights firms that excel in patent prosecution.Our firm earned placements in five categories.Silver:Time to Response After OANormalized OA to AllowanceBronze:Normalized Time to AllowanceExtensionsNormalized Allowance RateJuristat calculates their rankings by analyzing USPTO prosecution outcomes of - [From Vidal to Valid: The USPTO’s New Spin on Vidal-Era Rules](https://thip.law/insights/from-vidal-to-valid-the-usptos-new-spin-on-vidal-era-rules/) - On October 16, 2025, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in relation to inter partes review (IPR) proceedings before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. Focusing on “promot[ing] fairness, efficiency, and predictability in patent disputes,” some of the key proposed changes include: Petitioner Stipulation Requirement: IPR Petitioners must - [Training AI Using Copyrighted Materials: Is It Fair Use?](https://thip.law/insights/training-ai-using-copyrighted-materials-is-it-fair-use/) - If you’ve been wondering whether technology companies can use copyrighted books and other works to train large language models (LLMs), you’re not alone. Recent court decisions tell a nuanced story: training can be fair use in some circumstances, but how you acquire the books—and what you do with them—matters a lot. How you source data - [A Potentially Dramatic Shift in Design Patents - LKQ v. GM](https://thip.law/insights/a-potential-shift-in-design-patents-lkq-v-gm/) - Last month, the Federal Circuit released its en banc decision in LKQ Corporation v. GM Global Technology Operations, LLC. The following day, the USPTO released its updated guidelines for how examiners should evaluate design patents in view of the shift in the law. Although much ink has been spilled on the topic by patent bloggers, - [USPTO's Proposed Changes to Terminal Disclaimers](https://thip.law/insights/usptos-proposed-changes-to-terminal-disclaimers/) - The USPTO has proposed changes to terminal disclaimers that could weaken the enforceability of granted patents. - [USPTO Proposed Fee Increases for 2025](https://thip.law/insights/uspto-proposed-fee-increases-for-2025/) - The USPTO has announced its Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) for raising fees in 2025. The NPRM retains most of the fee adjustments that were first proposed in 2023, with only a few changes made in response to input from the Patent Public Advisory Committee (PPAC). The fees are significant and can greatly impact some - [David Pointer Contributes to "AI Patenting Handbook" White Paper for IPO](https://thip.law/insights/david-pointer-contributes-to-ai-patenting-handbook-white-paper-for-ipo/) - The Intellectual Property Owner’s Association (the “IPO”) recently published a white paper on patenting artificial intelligence (“AI”) inventions, entitled the “AI Patenting Handbook.” David Pointer, a partner at Thomas Horstemeyer, is a contributing author for the white paper. Specifically, David Pointer co-authored the portion of the white paper discussing district court decisions related to AI - [Unsettled Expectations – The Ongoing Consequences of LKQ](https://thip.law/insights/unsettled-expectations-the-ongoing-consequences-of-lkq/) - The Director of the USPTO recently released his decision to institute Inter Partes Review (“IPR”) proceedings in Top Glory Trading Group Inc. and DP Dream Pairs Inc. v. Cole Hann LLC, IPR2025-01395 (January 12, 2026). In Top Glory, the Petitioner requested institution of IPR proceedings to invalidate US Design Patent D768,959 owned by Cole Hann, - [USPTO Announces New Atlanta Regional Office](https://thip.law/insights/uspto-announces-new-atlanta-regional-office/) - On December 13, 2023, the USPTO announced the creation of two new regional offices – one in Atlanta and the other in Stafford County, New Hampshire. The expansion of the USPTO to include regional offices offers a number of benefits to examiners, practitioners, and inventors alike. Moreover, the selection of Atlanta underscores the city’s significance - [Thomas Horstemeyer Grows by Adding Atlanta-Based IP Boutique Brient IP](https://thip.law/insights/thomas-horstemeyer-grows-by-adding-atlanta-based-ip-boutique-brient-ip/) - ATLANTA, GA—Atlanta-Based IP boutique Brient IP Law recently joined Thomas|Horstemeyer, bringing with them former partners from Alston & Bird, Kilpatrick Townsend and Virginia-Based CowanPerry. Brient IP served its clients for almost 15 years, often being called on to protect the most important IP assets of Fortune 500 and well-funded startup companies. The addition will enhance - [Copywrong: Denmark’s Deepfake Strategy for Protecting Identity](https://thip.law/insights/copywrong-denmarks-deepfake-strategy-for-protecting-identity/) - Denmark is set to introduce new deepfake legislation aiming to grant its citizens copyright protection over their own faces, voices, and other personal attributes, according to a recent New York Times article. The goal: make unauthorized and potentially hard-to-spot AI-generated deepfakes illegal to create and/or distribute. A deepfake is a photo, video, or audio recording - [Three Thomas Horstemeyer Attorneys Join the Atlanta Intellectual Property Inn of Court](https://thip.law/three-thomas-horstemeyer-attorneys-join-the-atlanta-intellectual-property-inn-of-court/) - Congratulations to Thomas Horstemeyer attorneys Charles Landrum, Senior Counsel, Ivona Relja, Associate, and Paul Joseph (PJ) Spina, Associate, who were invited to join the Atlanta Intellectual Property Inn of Court. The Atlanta IP Inn of Court is a prestigious organization for intellectual property professionals with a core mission to promote ethics, civility, and legal skills - [Filing Multiple, Detailed Patents vs. a Single, More General Patent](https://thip.law/insights/filing-multiple-detailed-patents-vs-a-single-more-general-patent/) - One of our clients recently asked us to provide the Pros and Cons of filing multiple, more detailed patent applications to cover a particular technology as opposed to filing a single, more general patent application. An overview of our answer is provided below. 1. PROS a. Exclusivity/Market Advantage/Higher Profit Margins Patents can be used to - [Letters of Protest at the USPTO: A Practical Guide for Brand Owners](https://thip.law/insights/letters-of-protest-at-the-uspto-a-practical-guide-for-brand-owners/) - Many companies think that an application to register a trademark in the U.S. cannot be disputed until after it’s been published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). If you spot a pending trademark application that could harm your brand, you do not have to wait for a formal opposition to take action. - [Thomas Horstemeyer Insights Featured in Chambers and Partners Trade Marks & Copyright 2026 Guide](https://thip.law/insights/thomas-horstemeyer-insights-featured-in-chambers-and-partners-trade-marks-copyright-2026-guide/) - Managing Partner Andrew Crain and Partners Todd Deveau and Lani Burt recently contributed to the Chambers and Partners “Trade Marks & Copyright 2026 Guide.” Their article dives into trends and developments surrounding the film and music industries in Georgia.Drawing from deep expertise advising clients in media, entertainment, and beyond, the article focuses on past cases - [Balancing “Promise” to Prevent “Peril”: The USPTO’S Intentionally Cautious Utilization of Artificial Intelligence](https://thip.law/insights/balancing-promise-to-prevent-peril-the-usptos-intentionally-cautious-utilization-of-artificial-intelligence/) - As the prevalence of artificial intelligence has grown significantly over the last few years, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has taken measured steps toward its implementation within the intellectual property ecosystem. The USPTO has consistently recognized the tremendous potential for artificial intelligence “to support the agency’s mission,” yet it has exercised extreme - [USPTO Enablement Guidelines Post-Amgen](https://thip.law/insights/uspto-enablement-guidelines-post-amgen/) - The USPTO Has Issued New Guidelines for Assessing Enablement in View of the Supreme Court Decision in Amgen Inc. v. Sanofi et al. On January 10, 2024, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) published Guidelines for assessing enablement in view of the Supreme Court’s 2023 decision in Amgen Inc. et al. v. Sanofi - [Artificial Intelligence Related District Court Case Update](https://thip.law/insights/artificial-intelligence-related-district-court-case-update/) - To date, there have been relatively few patent lawsuits relating to artificial intelligence. With the emergence of various artificial-intelligence-based software entering the market, it will be interesting to see how courts interpret artificial-intelligence-based patents and the issues that emerge from the court proceedings. The following set of artificial-intelligence-related cases are from district courts of different - [Machine Learning Patent Applications: A Brief Look at Recentive](https://thip.law/insights/machine-learning-patent-applications-a-brief-look-at-recentive/) - On April 18, the Federal Circuit Court released its decision in Recentive Analytics, Inc., v. Fox Corp., Fox Broadcasting Company, LLC, and Fox Sports Productions, LLC. In Recentive, the patents claimed the use of machine learning to solve problems confronting broadcasters, such as the Defendants (collectively “Fox”), related to determining the scheduling of live events and - [The Trump Administration’s Proposed Taxation on Patent Valuation](https://thip.law/insights/the-trump-administrations-proposed-taxation-on-patent-valuation/) - The Trump Administration is discussing a significant change to patent fees, according to a recent Wall Street Journal report. The Commerce Department are considering the addition of an annual tax to patent holders equal to 1% to 5% of the overall value of the patent. This tax would be in addition to the existing maintenance ## Pages - [Home](https://thip.law/) - We are electrical engineers, computer scientists, chemists, mechanical engineers, biologists, computer engineers, chemical engineers, molecular biologists, intellectual property attorneys. - [Terms of Use](https://thip.law/terms/) - AGREEMENT BETWEEN USER AND Thomas Horstemeyer The Thomas Horstemeyer Web Site is comprised of various Web pages operated by Thomas Horstemeyer. The Thomas Horstemeyer Web Site is offered to you conditioned on your acceptance without modification of the terms, conditions, and notices contained herein. Your use of the Thomas Horstemeyer Web Site constitutes your agreement - [Privacy Policy](https://thip.law/privacy-policy/) - Thomas Horstemeyer is committed to protecting your privacy and developing technology that gives you the most powerful and safe online experience. 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Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat ## Homepage Slides - [Sub Image 4](https://thip.law/slide/sub-image-4/) - [Main 4](https://thip.law/slide/main-4/) - [Main 5](https://thip.law/slide/main-5/) - [Main 6](https://thip.law/slide/main-6/) - [Main 3](https://thip.law/slide/main-3/) - [Main 2](https://thip.law/slide/main-2/) - [Main 1](https://thip.law/slide/main-1/) - [Sub Image 6](https://thip.law/slide/sub-image-6/) - [Sub Image 5](https://thip.law/slide/sub-image-5/) - [Sub Image 3](https://thip.law/slide/sub-image-3/) - [Sub Image 2](https://thip.law/slide/sub-image-2/) - [Sub Image 1](https://thip.law/slide/sub-image-1/) ## Technical Expertise - [Biomedical Engineering](https://thip.law/technical-expertise/biomedical-engineering/) - Biomedical engineering sits at the crossroads of multiple disciplines. A pacemaker requires materials science, mechanical engineering, and electrical systems working together. Surgical robots demand precision mechanics and software integration. Diagnostic platforms combine hardware innovation with algorithmic processing. Medical device innovations also navigate complex regulatory requirements. Successful IP strategies account for both patent protection and regulatory - [Chemistry](https://thip.law/technical-expertise/chemistry/) - Chemical innovation drives advances in engineered materials, specialty chemicals, catalysts, pharmaceuticals, sensors and instrumentation, and nanotechnology. Competitors watch these spaces closely, and unprotected discoveries become lost opportunities. Effective protection requires attorneys with true technical fluency in all aspects of chemistry, including material compositions, synthetic pathways, molecular structures, and complex chemical processes and their use in - [Mechanical Engineering](https://thip.law/technical-expertise/mechanical-engineering/) - Mechanical innovation propels progress across transportation, manufacturing, consumer products, energy systems, and automation. Protecting mechanical innovations often means navigating dense prior art landscapes and incremental refinements, making precision and commercial relevance in claim drafting essential. Securing protection for these advances demands attorneys who possess authentic technical fluency in mechanical principles, system dynamics, and engineered component - [Biotechnology](https://thip.law/technical-expertise/biotechnology/) - Biotechnology involves biological innovations that include biological agents (such as protein-based agents like antibodies and enzymes, and nucleic-acid based agents that include various forms of RNA and DNA, for example, that have been used as therapeutic agents, as diagnostic agents, and for improving agricultural production), diagnostic tests, and tools that enable the study of biological - [Computer Science](https://thip.law/technical-expertise/computer-science/) - Computational innovations drive modern technology, from algorithms powering artificial intelligence to architectures enabling distributed systems. Strong IP strategies in software and computer science demand attorneys with deep technical fluency in algorithms, system design, data structures, and computational principles. Computer science intellectual property navigates complex legal landscapes shaped by evolving judicial precedent, making precise claim drafting - [Electrical Engineering](https://thip.law/technical-expertise/electrical-engineering/) - Electrical innovation has revolutionized communication, power distribution, computing, and countless systems that define modern life. Protecting these breakthroughs requires attorneys who bring genuine technical mastery of circuit design, signal processing, power systems, and electronic architectures. Electrical patents often involve sophisticated prior art analysis and nuanced claim construction, making it critical to develop protection that is ## People - [Paul Joseph "PJ" Spina](https://thip.law/people/paul-joseph-spina/) - Paul Joseph "PJ" Spina is an associate in Thomas Horstemeyer’s litigation practice group, where he concentrates on all facets of intellectual property litigation including patent, trademark, copyright, and other complex intellectual property disputes. PJ brings a strategic and detail-oriented approach to every matter, guiding cases through all phases—from early case assessment and strategy development to - [Todd Deveau](https://thip.law/people/todd-deveau/) - Todd Deveau is a partner at Thomas Horstemeyer. With years of expertise, Todd has worked in all areas of intellectual property, including patents, trademarks, counterfeiting, copyrights, industrial designs, litigation and dispute resolution, unfair competition and false advertising, trade secrets, opinions consultation and review, Intellectual Property agreements, contracts and licensing, Intellectual Property portfolio management, and U.S. - [Andrew Crain](https://thip.law/people/andrew-crain/) - Andrew Crain is the managing partner at Thomas Horstemeyer, and he is the leader of the firm’s intellectual property litigation practice. Andrew’s practice involves both the assertion of clients’ intellectual property rights against accused infringers and the defense of clients accused of infringing the IP rights of others. He represents clients in litigations involving all - [Lani Burt](https://thip.law/people/lani-burt/) - Lani Burt is a partner in Thomas Horstemeyer’s patent prosecution group. Her expertise ranges across many areas of intellectual property law, including patent preparation and prosecution, trademark prosecution, opinions, due diligence, and copyrights. She has managed various clients, from individuals to Fortune 500 companies. Lani’s patent experience covers a wide range of electrical, software, and - [Scott Horstemeyer](https://thip.law/people/scott-horstemeyer/) - Scott Horstemeyer is one of the founding partners and a former managing partner of Thomas Horstemeyer. He has been practicing intellectual property law for over thirty-five years. Scott has experience in connection with all aspects of intellectual property. His practice focuses on patent and trademark work, including procurement (prosecution), litigation strategy, portfolio management, due diligence, - [Tara Branscom-Holmes](https://thip.law/people/tara-branscom-holmes/) - Tara Branscom-Holmes is of counsel at Thomas Horstemeyer. With over 30 years of experience, she handles matters involving trademark and copyright prosecution; licensing, and corporate agreements for a large cross-section of products and technologies; intellectual property disputes such as trademark and domain name disputes; and intellectual property aspects of acquisitions and mergers. Tara represents large - [Lawrence Villanueva, Ph.D.](https://thip.law/people/lawrence-villanueva/) - Lawrence Villanueva, Ph.D. is a partner in Thomas Horstemeyer’s patent prosecution group. He has 30 years of experience preparing and prosecuting patent applications primarily in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnological fields. Larry has extensive experience across a wide range of technologies including pharmaceuticals, polymers and material chemistry, catalysts, and drug delivery devices. In addition to - [Christopher B. Linder, Ph.D.](https://thip.law/people/christopher-linder/) - Christopher Linder, Ph.D. is a partner in Thomas Horstemeyer’s patent prosecution group. His practice involves preparing and prosecuting patent applications across chemical, pharmaceutical, material science, polymer, biotechnological, and textile fields. Chris has helped many clients to secure and protect their patent rights by developing comprehensive claim strategies, including Fortune 100 companies, large research universities and - [Samantha "Sammie" Kench](https://thip.law/people/samantha-kench/) - Sammie Kench is an associate of Thomas Horstemeyer’s patent prosecution group. Sammie assists in drafting and prosecuting patent applications. Her experience in biomedical engineering allows her to cover a wide array of biological, mechanical, chemical, software, and electrical technologies. While in law school, Sammie held various board positions on the Intellectual Property Law Society. She - [Morgan Perkins, Ph.D.](https://thip.law/people/morgan-perkins/) - Morgan Perkins, Ph.D. is a patent agent at Thomas Horstemeyer. She serves technology transfer offices of research universities throughout the southeast region of the U.S. and beyond. She also works as outside patent counsel for a variety of companies, from startups to Fortune 500s. Her work encompasses a variety of technology sectors, including chemical, material - [Richard T. “Rick” Timmer, Ph.D.](https://thip.law/people/richard-t-rick-timmer-ph-d/) - Rick Timmer, Ph.D. is a senior patent agent in Thomas Horstemeyer’s patent prosecution group. Dr. Timmer assists clients with managing patent portfolios, preparing and prosecuting patent applications, counseling clients in strategic IP considerations, both in the U.S. and internationally, and with freedom-to-operate analysis and IP due diligence in the areas of chemistry, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, food technologies, - [Michellei Fisher](https://thip.law/people/michellei-fisher/) - Michellei Fisher is an associate in Thomas Horstemeyer’s patent prosecution group, where she leverages a multidisciplinary background in biotechnology and chemistry to support clients across a range of life sciences innovations. Her academic research focused on understanding viral disease mechanisms using both human tissue and mathematical models. After graduating, her research expanded into industry applications, - [Todd "T.C." Deveau, Ph.D.](https://thip.law/people/todd-tc-deveau/) - Todd "T.C." Deveau, Ph.D. is an associate in Thomas Horstemeyer’s prosecution group. T.C. has extensive patent drafting and prosecution expertise and has represented a wide variety of clients in both boutique and big law firms. T.C. has drafted and obtained numerous patents on technologies, from designer handbags and shoes to novel cancer therapeutics and diagnostics. - [John L. Lyon](https://thip.law/people/john-lyon/) - John L. Lyon is a partner in Thomas Horstemeyer’s patent prosecution group. John has provided intellectual property solutions for several Fortune 500 companies to develop and implement intellectual property strategies in the US and internationally. John has counseled his clients procure numerous patents in North America, Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, and South America. He has - [Michael J. D’Aurelio](https://thip.law/people/michael-daurelio/) - Michael J. D'Aurelio is a partner in Thomas Horstemeyer’s patent prosecution group. Mike has extensive experience providing intellectual property legal services for several Fortune 500 companies. He has written hundreds of patents for many technologies including printing, imaging, electrical circuitry, power applications, optical/electrical systems, mechanical systems, flow control technologies, data communications technologies, solar cell technologies, - [David Pointer](https://thip.law/people/david-pointer/) - David Pointer is a partner in Thomas Horstemeyer’s patent prosecution and post-grant proceeding groups. David’s practice primarily includes patent prosecution, post-grant proceedings, trademark prosecution, opinion preparation, and related IP counseling. David is a trusted IP advisor for clients in emerging technology fields, such as artificial intelligence (AI), power electronics, machine learning computing infrastructure, quantum computing, - [Alex Fonzi](https://thip.law/people/alex-fonzi/) - Alex Fonzi is an associate in Thomas Horstemeyer’s prosecution group. Alex’s practice covers a wide array of software, computational, and digital technologies. While attending law school, Alex was the President of the Vanderbilt Intellectual Property Association. He advised clients in the Vanderbilt Intellectual Property Clinic, helped manage an NSF Innovation Corps Start-up, developed trademark prosecution software - [Tristan Wittbrod](https://thip.law/people/tristan-wittbrod/) - Tristan Wittbrod is an associate in Thomas Horstemeyer’s patent prosecution group. Tristan’s practice focuses on chemical and material science technologies. Tristan received his undergraduate degree in chemistry from the University of Cincinnati. During this time, he worked as a teaching assistant for multiple chemistry laboratory courses, and as a laboratory technician for the university. Tristan earned - [Dan R. Gresham](https://thip.law/people/dan-gresham/) - Dan R. Gresham has more than 30 years of litigation experience involving all facets of intellectual property law, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, unfair competition, covenants not to compete, confidentiality agreements, and related issues. He also has experience in negotiating and drafting contracts and licensing agreements addressing intellectual property issues. Dan graduated from Georgia - [George Thomas](https://thip.law/people/george-thomas/) - George Thomas is one of the firm's founding partners. He has vast experience in all aspects of patents, trademarks, copyrights, and related litigation. George concentrated his practice in the mechanical patent prosecution and trademark prosecution areas. George served in the United States Navy [LTJG] from 1957-1960. Directly after, he worked as an Examiner at the - [A. Steven Nugent IV](https://thip.law/people/steven-nugent/) - Steven Nugent is of counsel in Thomas Horstemeyer’s prosecution group. He has over a decade of experience preparing and prosecuting patent applications in a variety of technical areas. Steven has drafted and secured the allowance of hundreds of patent applications across multiple technologies, including complex mechanical and medical devices, recycling systems, fitness equipment, polymer processing, - [Ragan Buckley, Ph.D.](https://thip.law/people/ragan-buckley/) - Ragan Buckley, Ph.D. is a patent agent at Thomas Horstemeyer. She has 13 years of experience in patent prosecution and is well-versed in several technology areas, including organic chemistry, catalysis, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, materials science, textiles, and medical devices. She is involved in all aspects of patent prosecution before the United States Patent and Trademark Office - [Baylee Howard](https://thip.law/people/baylee-howard/) - Baylee Howard is an associate in Thomas Horstemeyer’s patent prosecution group. Baylee drafts and prosecutes patent applications to protect her client’s innovations. Her multidisciplinary training as a biomedical engineer allows her to work with a wide range of technologies, including biological, mechanical, chemical, software, and electrical technologies. Baylee received her undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering - [Charles W. Griggers](https://thip.law/people/charles-griggers/) - Charles "Chuck" Griggers is a partner in Thomas Horstemeyer’s patent prosecution group. He practices in all aspects of intellectual property, including preparation and prosecution in patents, trademarks, and copyrights. He provides clients with legal opinions on patentability, infringement, validity, and freedom to operate. Chuck has patent prosecution expertise across multiple technologies including electrical, optical, mechanical, - [Charles Landrum](https://thip.law/people/charles-landrum/) - Charles Landrum is senior counsel in Thomas Horstemeyer’s litigation practice group. He is experienced with all aspects of intellectual property litigation, including patent, trademark, copyright, and various other intellectual property disputes. Charles handles opposition and cancellation proceedings before the Trademark Trial & Appeal Board. He also counsels clients on trademark prosecution matters, licensing, anti-counterfeiting, due - [Randy Schoen, Ph.D.](https://thip.law/people/randy-schoen-phd/) - Randy Schoen, Ph.D. is a partner in Thomas Horstemeyer’s patent prosecution group. Randy represents clients in the filing and prosecution of a wide range of national and international intellectual property applications including patents, trademarks, and copyrights. He also assists clients with trade secrets, licensing, due diligence, and intellectual property strategy. He has experience representing individual, ## Services - [Copyrights](https://thip.law/services/copyrights/) - Copyright Protection for the Digital AgeDigital distribution, generative AI, and evolving technologies have outpaced traditional copyright frameworks. At Thomas Horstemeyer, we take your creative work to heart, combining technical expertise with strategic copyright counsel to protect what you’ve built and anticipate what’s coming next. Contact Us Comprehensive Copyright ServicesCopyright Protection and RegistrationWe protect literary works, - [Post-Grant Proceedings](https://thip.law/services/post-grant-proceedings/) - Challenge Patents Before They Reach CourtPost-grant proceedings provide faster and less expensive alternatives to district court litigation for challenging or strengthening patents. PTAB proceedings resolve in 12-18 months versus years in federal court, with limited discovery and lower costs. These proceedings serve strategic objectives beyond validity challenges. Patent owners use them to amend claims and strengthen - [Patents](https://thip.law/services/patents/) - Patent Protection That Speaks Your Technical Language​Your innovation deserves patent protection crafted with both technical understanding and linguistic precision. Give the same invention to different patent attorneys, and you will receive fundamentally different patents. The technology might be identical, but the language choices determine how effectively your patent blocks competitors, withstands challenges, and generates licensing - [Trade Secrets](https://thip.law/services/trade-secrets/) - Your Competitive Advantage Lives in What You Keep ConfidentialTrade secrets protect innovations that patents cannot. Some technologies gain more value through confidentiality than through public disclosure, and the choice between these paths can shape your competitive position for years. We help you navigate that decision strategically, aligning protection methods with business realities. Contact Us Your - [Litigation](https://thip.law/services/litigation/) - Proven Success in High-Stakes IP LitigationThomas Horstemeyer attorneys win intellectual property cases against the country’s largest law firms. Our litigation team combines technical expertise with courtroom prowess. Every attorney holds a computer, science, or engineering degree and practices exclusively in IP law. We represent Fortune 500 companies, startups, and universities in high-stakes patent, trademark, trade - [Licensing, Acquisition, & Portfolio Management](https://thip.law/services/licensing-acquisition-portfolio-management/) - Transform IP Assets Into Market AdvantageYour patent portfolio represents years of innovation, investment, and competitive positioning. Those assets deserve strategic management that maximizes their value, whether through licensing revenue, acquisition opportunities, or a strengthened market position.Effective portfolio management requires understanding your technology roadmap, competitive landscape, and business goals. We help clients identify licensing opportunities for - [Trademark and Branding](https://thip.law/services/trademark-and-branding/) - Trademark and Branding Protection That Safeguards Your Market IdentityBuilding brand recognition and customer loyalty takes years. Protecting it shouldn’t feel transactional. At Thomas Horstemeyer, every trademark matter receives strategic attention from attorneys who understand that brand assets drive business value. We work directly with you through every step, ensuring your brand protection aligns with your - [Arbitration & Alternative Dispute Resolution](https://thip.law/services/arbitration-alternative-dispute-resolution/) - Efficient Dispute Resolution That Protects Your PositionAlternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) provides faster and less costly alternatives to courtroom litigation for resolving complex legal disputes. Thomas Horstemeyer’s litigators resolve intellectual property matters through arbitration and mediation, representing Fortune 500 companies, startups, and universities in high-stakes proceedings that determine competitive positions and protect market shares.Federal courts recognize ## Events - [International Trademark Association (INTA) - 2026 Annual Meeting](https://thip.law/events/international-trademark-association-inta-2025-annual-meeting/) - [Intellectual Property Organization (IPO) - 2026 Annual Meeting](https://thip.law/events/intellectual-property-organization-ipo-2026-annual-meeting/) - [Moffitt Cancer Center - Business of Biotech Annual Conference](https://thip.law/events/moffitt-cancer-center-annual-business-of-biotech-conference/) - [Intellectual Property Organization (IPO) - 2026 Spring Summit](https://thip.law/events/intellectual-property-organization-ipo-2026-spring-summit/) - [Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM) – 2026 Annual Meeting](https://thip.law/events/association-of-university-technology-managers-autm-2026-annual-meeting/) ## Careers - [There Are Currently No Open Positions](https://thip.law/careers/there-are-currently-no-openings-at-this-time/) - [New Job](https://thip.law/careers/new-job/) - this is the excerpt copy - [SUMMER ASSOCIATE PROGRAM](https://thip.law/careers/summer-associate-program/) - Our summer associate program is a launchpad for a career in IP law. Each participant gains the skills they need to succeed at the next level by engaging in intellectually stimulating and challenging work. 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