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Additive Manufacturing + 3D Printing Conference & Expo

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

Speaking Engagement | August.21.2016 - August.24.2016 | 8am - 5pm (Eastern Standard Time)

Charlotte Convention Center

Washington, D.C., partner Vann Pearce and senior associate Christopher Higgins will be featured speakers at the Additive Manufacturing + 3D Printing in Charlotte, North Carolina, on August 22. Vann and Chris will lead the panel titled "The Intersection of 3D Printing & Intellectual Property," which will focus on how 3D printing and additive manufacturing are rapidly changing the legal landscape. They also will share their expertise on what aspects of 3D printing/additive manufacturing IP are protectable, how to best ensure your company's IP is protected, and emerging threats to start considering now. For more information on the conference and to view the full agenda, please click here.

153942

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, portfolio development, and intellectual property due diligence. 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, 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.

740

Practice:

  • Technology & Innovation Sector
  • Patents
  • 3D Printing
  • U.S. International Trade Commission
  • Life Sciences & HealthTech
  • 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.