Protecting innovation from concept to market
Patent & Trademark Protection
I help inventors, entrepreneurs, and businesses secure patent and trademark protection that aligns with their commercial strategy. My engineering background means I understand your technology as well as the law.
Patent Prosecution
I draft and prosecute utility and design patent applications before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. At a boutique patent and trademark prosecution firm, I have drafted 15+ patent applications and responded to USPTO office actions across various technical fields. Previously, at an international consulting firm, I oversaw a portfolio of 10+ patents, coordinating with outside counsel for identification and prosecution of new inventions. My industrial engineering background — including experience as a Patent Fellow and Lead Commercialization Analyst at a major research university's tech transfer office — allows me to work directly with inventors to understand their innovations and craft patent claims that provide meaningful protection. I handle applications across a range of technologies, including software, mechanical systems, and AI/machine learning.
Trademark Registration
A strong trademark is the foundation of your brand identity. At a boutique patent and trademark prosecution firm, I have managed the full lifecycle of 20+ trademark applications, and previously oversaw a portfolio of 20+ trademarks at an international consulting firm. I guide clients through every stage: clearance searches to assess availability, federal and state registration applications, responses to office actions, and ongoing portfolio maintenance including renewals and monitoring for potential infringement.
IP Portfolio Management
Strategic IP management means more than filing applications. At an international consulting firm, I led execution of an enterprise-wide IP protection framework in collaboration with product and marketing teams, and conducted IP due diligence for mergers and acquisitions, client agreements, and vendor agreements. I help businesses build coherent IP portfolios through regular audits, competitive landscape analysis, licensing strategy, and prioritized filing programs that maximize protection within budget constraints.
IP Strategy for Startups & Tech Companies
Early-stage companies need IP strategies that protect their core innovations without breaking the bank. At a boutique patent and trademark prosecution firm, I advise entrepreneurs and small businesses on protecting the value of their innovations and brand identity. My earlier experience as a Lead Commercialization Analyst at a major research university's tech transfer office gave me a foundation in evaluating inventions for commercial potential. I advise startups on provisional patent filings, trade secret programs, freedom-to-operate analysis, and building an IP portfolio that appeals to investors and partners.
Key Services
- Utility and design patent applications
- Trademark registration (federal & state)
- Patent and trademark office action responses
- IP portfolio audits and strategy
- Freedom-to-operate opinions
- Startup IP counseling
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Practice Areas
IP & Complex Litigation
With 9+ years of combined in-house and law firm experience, I bring litigation skill, technical understanding, and a track record of results to every case — from patent infringement claims to multimillion-dollar trade secret trials.
Technology & Software Law
I do not just advise on technology law, I build AI-powered tools with Python, JavaScript and integrate Claude.AI, Gemini, and OpenAI APIs into real applications. As the owner of a SaaS company, I understand the needs and frustrations of startups and business owners — and what entrepreneurs expect from their attorneys. I combine the rigor of big law with the personal attention of a boutique firm. With an M.S. in Industrial Engineering and hands-on development experience, I understand modern software from the inside, and that perspective makes a difference when advising on AI governance, negotiating SaaS agreements, or resolving software disputes.
Let's Connect
Whether you need experienced IP counsel, want to discuss a technology dispute, or are interested in legal-tech collaboration — I am ready to help.
Based in Chicago. Serving clients nationwide.
Or reach me directly at legal@cemkuru.com
I typically respond within 24-48 hours.