Todd M. Hopfinger is a director in Sterne Kessler’s Electronics Practice Group. Todd specializes in the preparation and prosecution of patent applications for a wide range of entities, from start-ups and emerging growth companies to large multi-national corporations. In particular, Todd focuses on drafting high-quality software and bioinformatics patent applications, which help clients develop enforceable patent portfolios that create significant shareholder value. Todd believes the key to developing such a patent portfolio is a deep understanding of a client’s technology and business goals.
Todd has drafted patent applications relating to various technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) technology, bioinformatics, blockchain technology, computer architecture, computer databases, computer graphics, computer networking, and 5G technology. Todd also has drafted patent applications relating to computer security and cryptography, consumer electronics, diagnostic technology, DNA sequencing technology, digital advertising technology, and mobile technology.
Prior to joining Sterne Kessler, Todd developed computer-aided molecular design software at several bioinformatics start-ups. Todd brings additional experience in software systems, computer networks, and computer security from developing Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) technologies at Arbor Networks and his past research experience designing a mobile communications system for first responders at the University of Michigan.
Todd’s specialty is developing enforceable software and bioinformatics patent portfolios, relying on his deep understanding of the law around what constitutes patentable subject matter. Todd has extensive experience helping clients reframe their inventions in view of the most recent case law and USPTO guidance to overcome subject matter eligibility issues. Todd extensively speaks, writes, and provides training on subject matter eligibility issues. For example, Todd has written several articles on the subject matter eligibility challenges associated with prosecuting patent applications in the U.S., China, and Europe.
In addition to preparing and prosecuting patent applications, Todd is experienced in drafting non-infringement and invalidity opinions, handling inter partes review (IPR) and reexamination proceedings at the US Patent and Trademark Office and the Patent Trial and Appeal Board, and assisting with district court litigation matters.
Todd received his J.D. from The George Washington University Law School, his M.S. in computer science and engineering from the University of Michigan, and his B.S. in computer science from Purdue University.
When not at work, Todd enjoys cheering on his Michigan Wolverines. Go Blue!