Steven L. Oberholtzer
Practice Summary

Mr. Oberholtzer's practice focuses on patent and trademark counseling, corporate intellectual property policy development, technology licensing, joint development and joint venture relationship agreements, United States Patent and Trademark Office administrative proceedings including interferences, re-examinations, re-issues, trademark oppositions, patent application preparation and prosecution, providing opinions regarding infringement risks, design-around projects and patentability and administration of corporate intellectual property portfolios.

Mr. Oberholtzer has extensive experience in the mechanical and electro-mechanical disciplines with particular emphasis on automotive industry issues. He has additional significant experience in technology areas including medical devices, lasers, fiber optics, optical devices and heavy industrial equipment. In addition, Mr. Oberholtzer has acted as trial counsel in a number of patent infringement litigation cases.

Honors/Distinctions
  • "AV" Peer-Review Rated, highest ranking for Ethical Standards and Legal Ability, Martindale-Hubbell
  • Michigan Super Lawyers, 2006-2008
  • The Best Lawyers in America, 2007-2011
Publications
Books
  • "The Basic Principles of Intellectual Property Law," Second Edition, Arbor Books (2009).  A primer published by Brinks Hofer Gilson  Lione.  Copies available on request
  • "The Basic Principles of Intellectual Property Law," Arbor Books (2006).  A primer published by Brinks Hofer Gilson and Lione.
Feature Profiles
  • "Focus: Patent Law," Crain's Detroit Business, September 14, 2009 (Mr. Oberholtzer discussed patent reform and patent litigation around the world)
Published Articles
Presentations
  • Mr. Oberholtzer is a frequent speaker on issues of intellectual property policy development.
Memberships & Affiliations
  • Washtenaw County Bar Association
    Chair, Intellectual Property Law Section
  • Technology Transfer Society
  • Michigan Patent Law Association
  • Licensing Executives Society
  • Original Equipment Suppliers Association
Legal Experience
  • Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione, Ann Arbor, Michigan
    Shareholder, 2001-Present
    Managing Partner, Ann Arbor office
    Member, Board of Directors, 2007-2008
  • Harness, Dickey & Pierce
    Partner, 1987-2000
    Associate, 1983-1987
  • Kelsey Hayes, Inc.
    Associate Patent Counsel, 1981-1983
© 1998-2010 Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione. All Rights Reserved.