James Bender

A software engineer turned patent attorney, James Bender approaches his craft with a combination of technical skill and well-rounded legal expertise. After earning a Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and computer sciences from U.C. Berkeley, James worked for nearly five years on a team of engineers dedicated to designing, implementing and maintaining a key product at a neuroscience-focused educational software company. Experienced in multiple types of technologies, including electronics, fiber optics, automotive systems, and computer software and hardware, he now offers IP-focused legal analysis and advice that spans a variety of industries and business transactions.

Over the years, James has acquired an extensive history working in IP law. As a law clerk to the Honorable Todd M. Hughes, U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, James assisted with research, analysis and drafting related to IP cases, including district court and ITC appeals in patent cases and USPTO patent and trademark appeals. More recently, James worked in the D.C. office of an international law firm where he focused on patent litigation. In this role, he engaged in all aspects of litigation and dispute resolution – representing clients before Federal District Courts and the ITC, in inter partes review proceedings before the PTAB and in appeals before the Federal Circuit. These experiences emphasized the importance of strategically using patents as a business tool, thus, making James a valuable resource for any company seeking meaningful IP protection.

James currently supports our clients in the software and electronics fields, leveraging his industry experience to focus on the development of patent portfolios. Pulling from years of hands-on experience defending, and challenging, issued patents, James works diligently with inventors to provide them the highest form of protection for their inventions. No matter which side he’s on, prosecution or litigation, James understands that the true strength behind any IP portfolio lies in its ability to support underlying business goals. By viewing each patent as a business tool, he is able to tactically and efficiently guide businesses through every stage of patent preparation, prosecution and beyond.