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RAPID + TCT: Accelerating 3D Manufacturing

Speaking Engagement | May.08.2017 - May.11.2017

Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh, PA

Orrick 3D Printing Partner Vann Pearce and Senior Associate Chris Higgins will present "The Intersection of 3D Printing and Intellectual Property".

Every technology developer needs strategies for protecting intellectual property rights while mitigating the risk of IP infringement claims. Similarly, every developer needs to protect company data from the ever increasing threat of cyber attacks. 3D printing has changed the legal landscape and companies in the field need to be aware of the potential pitfalls. In this presentation, attorneys who have been internationally recognized for their expertise on these subjects will give practical advice on what types of IP and cybersecurity issues to look out for in 3D printing and how to best ensure your company’s assets are protected.

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Practice:

  • Technology & Innovation Sector
  • Patents
  • 3D Printing
  • U.S. International Trade Commission
  • Life Sciences
  • Intellectual Property
  • Inter Partes Review (IPR)
  • IP Counseling & Due Diligence

Christopher Higgins Partner

Washington, D.C.

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.

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Practice:

  • Technology & Innovation Sector
  • Patents
  • 3D Printing
  • Intellectual Property
  • U.S. International Trade Commission
  • Inter Partes Review (IPR)
  • Automotive Technology & Mobility

T. Vann Pearce, Jr. Partner

Washington, D.C.

He also counsels clients on patent licensing and portfolio development. Vann co-founded Orrick's 3D printing practice.

In 2022-2023, Vann served as the Chief Practice Officer for the firm's IP & Litigation Business Units. In this role, Vann advised on strategic planning, operations, and management of Orrick’s IP, Employment, Complex Litigation & Dispute Resolution, International Arbitration, and Supreme Court & Appellate practice groups, which comprise nearly 400 attorneys globally. His responsibilities included oversight of the units' financial performance, business planning and execution, and lawyer recruiting. Vann also previously served as the firm’s U.S. Law School Hiring Partner, overseeing entry-level hiring nationwide.

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