Lestin L. Kenton, Jr. is a director in Sterne Kessler’s Electronics Practice Group, renowned for his multifaceted expertise in intellectual property law. With a distinguished career spanning post-grant review proceedings at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), Section 337 Investigations before the U.S. International Trade Commission, infringement and validity opinions, patent portfolio evaluations, and global prosecution strategies, Lestin is a trusted advisor to clients navigating complex IP landscapes.

As a leading PTAB litigator, Lestin has demonstrated unparalleled proficiency in challenging and defending patents before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. He has spearheaded numerous inter partes review (IPR), post grant review (PGR) and covered business method review proceedings under the America Invents Act, delivering favorable outcomes for both petitioners and patent owners. Over the last decade, Lestin has been counsel in over 100 PTAB proceedings spanning the electronics, mechanical and life-sciences arts.  In 2023, Patexia ranked Lestin as one of the most active and best performing PTAB attorneys over the five-year period from July 1, 2018 – June 30, 2023.  Notably, he was ranked in the top 50 of the Best Performing Attorneys Representing Patent Owners and ranked within the 100 best active and performing attorneys overall during this five-year period. Lestin’s strategic prowess and technical acumen have solidified his reputation as a formidable advocate in high-stakes PTAB disputes across diverse industry sectors.

Lestin is widely recognized as an expert in artificial intelligence (AI), leveraging his comprehensive understanding of AI algorithms, machine learning models, and data privacy laws to counsel tech companies on patenting AI innovations and mitigating legal risks associated with AI development and deployment. His strategic guidance ensures compliance with regulatory frameworks while maximizing the protection of AI-related intellectual property assets.

In the realm of data protection, Lestin is a recognized authority, specializing in the intellectual property protection of data-driven technologies. He assists clients in developing robust strategies for safeguarding data innovations through patents, trade secrets, and contractual arrangements. Lestin’s expertise spans data security best practices and the intricate legal dynamics of data ownership and licensing, ensuring clients’ sensitive information is secure and compliant with relevant laws and regulations.

Lestin has been instrumental in advancing legal education and professional development, leading Sterne Kessler’s PTAB Roundtables since 2014 and serving as an adjunct professor at George Mason University Antonin Scalia Law School since August 2021, where he imparts invaluable insights on PTO litigation.

Recognized for his exceptional contributions to the field, Lestin was selected by Super Lawyers to the Washington DC “Rising Stars” list in Intellectual Property for 2019 and 2020. He continues to shape the discourse on intellectual property law as a member of Law360’s 2024 IP Editorial Advisory Board and as a contributing author of Patent Office Litigation, Second Edition, published in 2017 by Thomson Reuters Westlaw.

Prior to joining Sterne Kessler, Lestin honed his technical expertise as a software developer at a defense contractor, specializing in ground-based air surveillance radar. He holds a B.S. in computer science & engineering from the University of Pennsylvania and a J.D. from Widener University School of Law. Lestin’s unique blend of technical proficiency, legal acumen, and strategic insight positions him as a trusted partner in helping clients navigate the complexities of intellectual property law in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape.

  • Patexia, “100 Best Performing Attorneys Representing Patent Owners – PTAB (Top 50)” (2023)
  • Patexia, “100 Best Performing Attorneys Overall – PTAB” (2023)
  • Patexia, “100 Most Active Attorneys Representing Patent Owners – PTAB” (2023)
  • Patexia, “100 Most Active Attorneys Overall – PTAB” (2023)
  • Patexia, “100 Most Active Attorneys Representing Patent Owners – Inter Partes Review” (2022)
  • Patexia, “100 Best Performing Attorneys Representing Patent Owners – Inter Partes Review (Top 50)” (2022)
  • Super Lawyers, “Rising Star – Washington DC” (2020 – 2019)
  • World Intellectual Property Review (WIPR), “WIPR Leaders” (2024)

  • J.D., Widener University School of Law
  • B.S.E., Computer Science, University of Pennsylvania

  • District of Columbia
  • New Jersey
  • Pennsylvania
  • United States Patent & Trademark Office

Speaking Engagement

The Sedona Conference WG9/10 Annual Meeting 2024

Tampa, FL, The Hotel Haya, September 24, 2024 2:45 PM - 4:00 PM EST

Webinar

Bench and Bar Discussion of IPR Strategies

Virtual, September 16, 2024 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EST

Speaking Engagement

The Sedona Conference on AI and the Law, Part 2: AI and IP Law

Reston, VA, Hyatt Regency Reston, June 20, 2024 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM EDT

Speaking Engagement

The AI Strategy Summit: IP, Data & Compliance

Palo Alto, CA, Sheraton Palo Alto, May 22, 2024 9:35 AM - 10:20 AM EDT

Webinar

2022 PTAB Year in Review: Analysis and Trends

Virtual, February 28, 2023 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM EST

Speaking Engagement

Diversity in Big Law and Big Data

Austin, TX, University of Texas at Austin School of Law, February 24, 2023 9:05 AM - 10:00 AM EST

Speaking Engagement

Industry Review 2022: Software and AI

Virtual, December 13, 2022 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM EST

Webinar

Inter Partes Reviews: A Global Perspective on Post-Grant Validity Trials

Virtual, June 22, 2022 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM EST

Speaking Engagement

Pre-Trial Practice: Finishing it Before it Starts

Virtual, April 20, 2021 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM EST

Speaking Engagement

Patent Trial and Appeal Board Practice

Virtual, April 16, 2021 8:45 AM - 10:15 AM EST

Hosted Event

2019 Global IP Strategy Conference

Washington, DC, March 15, 2019

Related News & Insights

From Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.

Articles

November 7, 2024

Top 5 Potential Implications of AI-Generated Prior Art on Patent Law

Westlaw Today Multiple Authors

Articles

August 27, 2024

Impact of the Supreme Court's Elimination of Chevron Deference on PTAB Practice

Westlaw Today Multiple Authors

Articles

July 25, 2024

Key Considerations When Using AI Tools to Draft and File Documents with the USPTO

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox Todd M. Hopfinger, Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.

Client Alert

July 23, 2024

IP Hot Topic: Update on USPTO Guidance for AI Subject Matter Eligibility

Todd M. Hopfinger, Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.

Articles

July 12, 2024

Patent Law and Generative AI 101

Westlaw Today Multiple Authors

Firm News

July 8, 2024

Five Sterne Kessler Attorneys Honored as 2024 WIPR Leaders by World Intellectual Property Review

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox

Firm News

June 20, 2024

Sterne Kessler Secures Two Federal Circuit Wins on Behalf of Client Roku

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox

Articles

June 12, 2024

Patent Decision Offers New Look at Weighing of Factors for Discretionary Denial by PTAB

Westlaw Today Multiple Authors

Articles

April 29, 2024

Trade Secret Protection: Why It Matters Now More Than Ever

Westlaw Today Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.

In the News

March 20, 2024

Law360 Announces the Members of Its 2024 Editorial Boards

Law360

Articles

February 12, 2024

PTAB Spotlight Series with Lestin Kenton

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox

Firm News

January 4, 2024

Director Lestin Kenton Recognized With 2023 Profiles in Diversity Journal® Award

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox

Firm News

September 18, 2023

Sterne Kessler Achieves Top Litigation Rankings in Patexia’s 2023 PTAB Intelligence Report

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox

In the News

September 11, 2023

Five Minutes With... Lestin Kenton, Sterne Kessler

Managing IP

In the News

August 18, 2023

Newman Issues Fed. Circ. Decision Affirming Roku PTAB Wins

Law360

In the News

November 10, 2022

Patexia Insight 158: Top IPR Firms of 2022

Patexia

In the News

September 23, 2022

Roku Gets Universal Remote Patent Wiped Out at PTAB

Law360

In the News

September 23, 2022

Roku Scores Latest Win in Ongoing Patent Battles Over TV Tech

Bloomberg Law

Firm News

June 9, 2022

Sterne Kessler and D.C. Bar Pro Bono Center Host Sixth Annual Small Business Clinic

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox

Reports

March 7, 2022

2021 PTAB Year in Review: Analysis & Trends

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox Multiple Authors

Articles

March 7, 2022

A Niche Within a Niche: The PTAB’s Evolving Motion to Amend Practice

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox Multiple Authors

Firm News

March 7, 2022

Sterne Kessler Publishes 2021 PTAB Year in Review: Analysis & Trends Report

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox

Articles

July 21, 2021

Tips for Patent Owners, Petitioners for PTAB Motions to Amend

Bloomberg Law Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.

In the News

March 30, 2021

Roku Wipes Out Remote Control Patents At PTAB

Law360

Client Alert

July 7, 2020

IP Hot Topic: Patent Prosecution Tool Kit

Carla Ji-Eun Kim

Reports

July 7, 2020

2020 Patent Prosecution Tool Kit

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox Multiple Authors

Articles

July 7, 2020

Update on Patent Subject Matter Eligibility & Abstract Ideas

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox Lestin L. Kenton, Jr., Michelle K. Holoubek

Firm News

April 30, 2020

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox Attorneys Named 2020 Super Lawyers and Rising Stars

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C.

Firm News

April 16, 2020

Sterne Kessler Hosts Virtual Pro Bono Clinic for Small Businesses

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C.

PTAB Strategies and Insights

March 18, 2020

PTAB Strategies and Insights - March 2020

Jason D. Eisenberg, Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.

Articles

March 18, 2020

Another Patent Ineligible Technology - Adding to the Growing List

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.

Client Alert

March 4, 2020

IP Hot Topic: 2019 PTAB Year in Review: Analysis & Trends

Multiple Authors

Articles

February 28, 2020

Challenges to the Constitutionality of the Patent Trial and Appeal Board

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox Lestin L. Kenton, Jr., William H. Milliken

Firm News

February 28, 2020

Sterne Kessler Publishes 2019 PTAB Year in Review Report

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C.

Reports

February 25, 2020

2019 PTAB Year in Review: Analysis & Trends

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox Multiple Authors

PTAB Strategies and Insights

January 31, 2020

PTAB Strategies and Insights - January 2020

Jason D. Eisenberg, Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.

Articles

January 31, 2020

Chaos All Around - Arthrex and Alice

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox Jason D. Eisenberg, Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.

PTAB Strategies and Insights

November 26, 2019

PTAB Strategies and Insights - November 2019

Multiple Authors

In the News

May 14, 2019

Fed. Circ. Backs PTAB Ax Of J&J Prostate Cancer Drug Patent

Law360

In the News

May 14, 2019

Johnson & Johnson loses appeal to revive Zytiga patent

Reuters

In the News

May 8, 2019

Law360 Names Attys Who Moved Up The Firm Ranks In Q1 (2019)

Law360

Newsletter

February 14, 2019

Global Patent Prosecution Newsletter - February 2019

Lestin L. Kenton, Jr., Michelle K. Holoubek

Articles

February 14, 2019

Practice Tips: USPTO’s New Guidance on Patent Eligibility

Lestin L. Kenton, Jr., Michelle K. Holoubek

Articles

January 8, 2019

5 Things To Know About USPTO’s New Eligibility Guidance

Law360 Lestin L. Kenton, Jr., Michelle K. Holoubek

Firm News

January 3, 2019

Sterne Kessler Elects Six New Directors

In the News

December 21, 2018

10 Most-Read IP Law360 Guests of 2018

Law360

Articles

April 20, 2018

3 Things To Know About USPTO's New Memo On Eligibility

Law360 Lestin L. Kenton, Jr., Michelle K. Holoubek

PTAB Strategies and Insights

March 22, 2018

PTAB Strategies and Insights - March 2018

Multiple Authors

Articles

March 21, 2018

Patent Owners Should Use Experts to Attack Motivation to Combine at POPR Stage

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox Jason D. Eisenberg, Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.

Books and Chapters

February 17, 2017

Patent Office Litigation - Second Edition 2017

Thomson Reuters Westlaw Multiple Authors

Client Alert

May 13, 2016

CAFC Finds Software Patent Eligible

Michelle K. Holoubek, Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.

In the News

April 27, 2016

Eye-Sensor Patent Owner Slams Samsung Over Late AIA Move

Law360

In the News

March 23, 2016

LG Says AMD Misreading Prior Art In Video Patent Fight

Law360

In the News

February 4, 2016

LG Again Loses Bid For AIA Review Of Display Patent's Claim

Law360

Client Alert

January 23, 2015

Energy Management Patent Triggers a Covered Business Method Review

Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.

Client Alert

December 15, 2014

USPTO Issues New Subject Matter Eligibility Examination Interim Guidelines –Abstract Idea Guidance

Michelle K. Holoubek, Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.

Articles

December 9, 2014

DDR Holdings – A Beacon of Hope for Software Patents?

Law360 Michelle K. Holoubek, Lestin L. Kenton, Jr.