What’s in the Pipeline for Judicial Vacancies? – August 2 Update

We continue to follow the important changes underway behind the bench at the Federal Circuit and in several district courts where a significant number of patent infringement cases are pending. On August 1, the Senate unanimously confirmed Raymond Chen to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Judge Chen will fill the seat that was vacated by Judge Richard Linn, who assumed senior status in October 2012. Judge Chen becomes the second judge confirmed to the Federal Circuit this year, following Judge Richard Taranto’s confirmation in March.

Chen has a strong background in intellectual property law. Since 2008, he has served as the Deputy General Counsel for IP law and as solicitor for the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Prior to that, he was an associate solicitor for 10 years. Chen began his legal career in private practice as an IP lawyer focusing on patent prosecution and litigation. Prior to earning his law degree, Chen was a scientist at an IP boutique, where he specialized in electrical and computer-related technologies. He holds a degree in electrical engineering.

We will continue to track the judicial confirmation process as it progresses. To view the chart of judicial vacancies in jurisdictions with active patent litigation dockets, please click here.

Contact Information

If you have any questions regarding this alert, please contact—

Michael Simons
msimons@akingump.com
512.499.6253
Austin