Rory Foster

Strategic counsel for patents and other IP

Rory Foster counsels on patent prosecution and strategic portfolio management across a wide range of industries, with focus on mechanical, electronic, hydraulic, chemical processing and algorithmic inventions. He also advises on intellectual property (IP) transactions, including due diligence and IP agreements for acquisition, licensing, joint development and other endeavors. Rory’s technological experience is focused in particular on:

• Fluidic systems, including valves/controls for hydrocarbon extraction and distribution, and processing systems for chemical production
• Mechanical systems, including construction and off-highway equipment, and electrical system infrastructure
• Industrial controls and algorithmic inventions

Rory advises clients ranging from startups to multinationals on a wide range of IP issues, focusing particularly on global patent prosecution and portfolio management that appropriately balances costs with commercial value. He helps clients to strategically build patent families and portfolios to protect innovation, and provides guidance on all aspects of IP risk management, ranging from standardized product clearance processes to preparation for litigation, inter partes reviews (IPR) and other invalidity proceedings. He previously worked as a research and services engineer in natural gas production.

• Ongoing strategic advice and management for clients' patent rights, ranging from core applications for startups to global portfolios with 500-plus active cases.
• Advice on infringement risks and enforcement/defensive strategies. In collaboration with Quarles’ experienced IP litigators, Rory helps clients navigate all aspects of patent enforcement and defense, including for systemic product clearance and offensive and defensive patent litigation in the U.S., EU and South America.
• IP due diligence and IP agreements. Rory has wide experience with IP asset transfers and other IP agreements, including for a $3 billion corporate restructuring, multicountry IP assignments and licensing, joint development ventures and add-on acquisitions to expand the business of global manufacturing companies.
• Guiding clients to understand and act on their IP risks and opportunities. Rory advises large and small clients on internal systems and procedures to identify and manage IP risks, and to maximize the value of IP portfolios. Rory also offers frequent client training on best patent practices for invention harvesting, risk management and cost-effective prosecution.