This month, we are testing out a pizza and talk format. RSVP is required, but we can take payment on site by either check or cash. We only can accept credit cards in advance, unfortunately. Please note our new location at Brandman University in Irvine! We are now offering this event free to people who are unemployed or students, as well as to people who are interested in only showing up to the presentation. If you are interested in only showing up for the presentation, please show up at 6:45 PM.

Abstract

Invention ownership issues associated with patents in employer-employee relationships, martial relationships, partnerships, consulting arrangements, and researcher-university arrangements.

Topics include consideration of licensing issues including the transfer or assignment of patents. The presentation will focus on common issues or pitfalls to be aware of in employment relationships.

Common scenarios in the corporate or other employment settings will be discussed to practically highlight the considerations behind effective protection of your ownership interests in intellectual property. In addition, the presentation will touch upon inventions made under Government contracts and how patent ownership can be affected in such situations when a university, non-profit, or small business are a party to the contract.

The speaker will entertain questions on issues concerning obtaining and enforcing patent protection for computer software, and the recently passed America Invents Act.

Biography

Al Gess is an attorney at Snell & Wilmer in Orange County, CA.  His practice is concentrated in litigation and transactional work in the areas of patent, trademark, trade secret, unfair competition, copyright, and related contract law.  He received his Electrical Engineering degree from the University of Detroit in 1966 and his juris doctorate from American University, Washington College of Law in 1971.  Mr. Gess has worked in a variety of professional capacities throughout his career, including: 

• Price and Gess, Founding Partner
• Jackson, Jones & Price, Partner
• Burroughs Corporation, Senior Patent Attorney
• Office of Naval Research, Patent Advisor
• United States Patent and Trademark Office, Patent Examiner

Mr. Gess is and has been involved in a variety of professional and local memberships and activities.  These activities include the State Bar of California, the American Bar Association (Patent Enforcement Section, Patent Trademark and Copyright Law Section), the Federal Bar Association, the Orange County Bar Association, the Orange County Patent Law Association (President - 1990), the Los Angeles Intellectual Property Law Association, the American Intellectual Property Law Association, the Licensing Executive Society, and the International Trademark Association.  Professional recognitions and awards for his intellectual property work and expertise include: 

• The Best Lawyers in America®, Intellectual Property Law (2007-2011)
• Southern California Super Lawyers®, Intellectual Property (2007-2011)
• Super Lawyers®, Intellectual Property - Business Edition (2011)
• Super Lawyers®, Intellectual Property - Corporate Counsel Edition (2010)
• Who's Who Worldwide®
• Fellow, Institute for the Advancement of Engineering
• IEEE Third Millennium Medal  

In addition, Mr. Gess is heavily involved in local community organization and groups.  He is a senior lifetime member of the IEEE and has served in officer positions and as a board member.  These positions include Treasurer of the Orange County Computer Society, Board Member of the LA Council, and Chair and Treasurer of the OC Section.  Mr. Gess served on the Board of advisors at the College of Engineering and Science at the University of Detroit and was involved in the John Sherman Myers Society at American University.  Mr. Gess has also served as a Board Member for the Canyon Acres Children and Family Services.

Schedule

6:00PM - Social

6:30PM - Dinner

7:00PM - Presentation