Todd M. Hopfinger

Todd Hopfinger is a director in Sterne Kessler’s Electronics Practice Group. He specializes in strategic intellectual property (IP) counseling and patent prosecution for technology companies at all development stages, from innovative startups to major global enterprises. His areas of expertise include cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), bioinformatics, data science, blockchain, 5G, consumer technology, transportation and logistics (including autonomous vehicles), digital advertising, and cybersecurity.

Todd is particularly skilled in preparing and prosecuting patent applications. He focuses on crafting high-quality software and bioinformatics patent portfolios that align with clients’ technological and business goals. His technical insights stem from his previous experience in developing Deep Packet Inspection (DPI) technologies at Arbor Networks, designing communication systems for first responders at the University of Michigan, and developing computer-aided molecular design software at several bioinformatics startups.

Furthermore, Todd possesses a deep understanding of the legal aspects of patent eligibility. He helps clients navigate the complexities of recent case law and U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) guidelines. He actively shares his expertise on this subject through speaking engagements and publications. For example, Todd has written several articles on the subject matter eligibility challenges associated with prosecuting patent applications in the United States, China, and Europe.

As a member of Sterne Kessler’s AI leadership team, Todd helps clients safeguard their AI technologies, arrange licensing agreements, and handle the legal and regulatory complexities surrounding AI. His deep knowledge of these topics is supported by his extensive technical and legal background in AI and machine learning technologies, such as pattern recognition, predictive analysis, and neural networks. He has particular expertise in industries like biotech, healthcare, and consumer technology.

Todd’s expertise extends to drafting non-infringement and invalidity opinions, handling inter partes review and reexamination proceedings at the USPTO, and assisting with litigation in district court.

Todd earned his J.D. from The George Washington University Law School, an M.S. in Computer Science and Engineering from the University of Michigan, and a B.S. in Computer Science from Purdue University. Outside of work, he passionately supports his Wolverines. Go Blue!