Chad Dougherty

Chad Dougherty is a patent prosecutor with deep experience in semiconductor technologies, industrial products and the oil and gas sector. Before earning his law degree, Chad interned with several major mechanical, engineering and construction firms.

Chad now tackles each project with the mind of both an engineer and an attorney by critically analyzing each detail and always asking “why” before making a decision. The insight he provides extends beyond the IP at hand to include the invention’s impact on the client’s larger business model.

His experience enables him to process patent applications rapidly. For example, an aerospace patent application had initially been handled by another firm and was stalled for 12 years — including at least one continuation application and three requests for continued examination. Once the case was transferred to Chad, the client quickly received a notice of allowance on commercially relevant subject matter.

Chad also understands his clients’ need for efficiency — demonstrated recently when he presented oral arguments (and won) before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board via teleconference.

Chad has worked with foreign associates in Europe, Asia, North and South America, Australia and Africa. He focuses on preparing and prosecuting foreign patents and trademarks, and he has served as local counsel for many foreign clients, advising them on IP strategy based on U.S. law.

Chad began his legal career at Patterson + Sheridan as a summer associate in 2007, and has been advocating for clients here ever since. Now, he invests in mentoring the firm’s summer associates and preparing them for their law careers. In fact, Chad’s younger sister got her start with the firm by spending a summer here during law school — making him a “big brother” to the summer associates in more ways than one. He also dedicates time to visiting high schools and teaching students about the legal profession.

When he’s not in the office, you can likely find Chad camping, hunting and hiking. He also has a pilot’s license and enjoys spending time in the air.