Chris Rourk Speaks on Administrative Law for Dallas Bar Association’s IP Law Section

November 2, 2017 | Speaking Engagements



The Dallas Bar Association’s Intellectual Property Law Section sought the insights of partner Christopher J. Rourk for its recent CLE on administrative law issues in intellectual property litigation. Chris gave a presentation given alongside Donald Puckett of Nelson Bumgardner PC that aimed to educate attendees on the importance of administrative law in successfully representing clients before U.S. Patent and Trademark Office venues.

The presentation began with an outline of administrative law concepts particularly applicable to the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) and Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB). The presentation also provided a summary of recent case law developments involving administrative law and intellectual property.

The cases covered included In re Magnum Oil Tools International, 829 F.3d 1364, one of the first cases to result in a full reversal of the Patent Trial and Appeal Board from a decision in an Inter Partes Review. Chris served as lead briefing attorney for the appellant in this case.

Finally, the presentation covered strategies and considerations for intellectual property attorneys to use when representing clients before the PTAB. For more details, view the following presentation slides:

Administrative Law Fundamentals and Strategies for IP Lawyers (PDF)

In re Magnum Oil Tools International 829 F.3d 1364 (PDF)


Meet Chris

Christopher J. Rourk represents clients in high-profile intellectual property matters and commercial litigation. He has a wealth of experience in both patent prosecution and litigation, having prosecuted over 300 patents to issuance and helped a number of clients protect or defend against infringement claims. Chris is AV Rated by Martindale-Hubble and was recognized as a Legal Lion by Law360 for his work on Magnum Oil Tools International Ltd., case number 15-1300, in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.