Washington, D.C.
Chris Higgins is a patent litigator and co-leader of the 3D Printing Group at Orrick. Chris is a trial lawyer with an electrical engineering degree, giving him a unique set of skills to represent clients in disputes involving complex technologies such as 3D printing and 3D scanning, graphics processing, semiconductors, medical devices, LCD displays, and data encryption.
Chris has developed a global reputation as an authoritative source on legal issues in 3D
printing, and has been a featured speaker at 3D
printing events around the world. His 3D printing practice includes advising
startups and established 3D printing companies on all aspects of intellectual property law, cybersecurity, and technology transactions. Chris helps 3D printing clients
grow their businesses and capitalize on market opportunities and represents them in court to defend or enforce IP rights. Chris' 3D printing work extends beyond the courtroom; he teaches a course at Penn State University as part of its Masters of Engineering in Additive Manufacturing and Design program.
Chris' patent litigation and IPR practice also covers a wide range of other
technologies including graphics processing, digital image processing and
printing, semiconductor devices and semiconductor manufacturing, data
encryption, high-definition television, digital content recognition, and medical
devices. Chris has also assisted clients with licensing and patent prosecution related to 3D printing, digital imaging, wireless
technology, mobile communication devices, encryption, high-definition television
and medical devices.
Prior to law school, Chris worked in the patent department of a medical
device company and as an engineer designing electronic components for missiles,
projectiles, and bombs.