What do students do in this clinic?
Students prosecute patents, prepare filings in the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), respond to office actions and advocate for clients.
FAQ
-
What happens in the classroom component?
Case updates, guest speakers, and group work on targeted skills that arise in the casework of the clinic.
-
What do students learn in this clinic?
A variety of client interaction and management skills, including managing client expectations, client interviewing and counseling; ethical issues; and exposure to the practice aspects of work as a patent attorney.
-
When is this clinic offered?
Fall, spring and summer.
-
How many credits?
One–three credits
-
Are students permitted or encouraged to take this clinic for additional semesters?
Yes, students are encouraged to continue if possible.
-
Are there any required or recommended pre-requisites?
Pre-requisites are Professional Responsibility and Patent I and II. Patent Prosecution can be taken concurrently. Students who have significant relevant experience may receive a waiver of pre-requisites with the consent of the instructors. Students also need to have enough patent-eligible background to apply for temporary practice before the USPTO.
-
Can students with full-time jobs take this clinic?
Yes, though students must have the flexibility to attend class and occasionally to meet with clients.
-
Can students who live outside the Twin Cities take this clinic?
Yes, as long as they can arrange to attend class and client meetings remotely. In the summer, the class meets less frequently and is more accessible to remote participation.
-
Who should take this clinic?
This is an advanced clinic designed for students with an interest in patent practice, who have completed significant coursework in intellectual property subjects.
Faculty and staff
