2023 Annual Meeting
In This Section
This year's Annual Meeting saw over 1,400 IP practitioners from around the world gather for three days of CLE and networking. #aiplaAM23 boasted a diverse lineup of engaging sessions, interactive discussions, and numerous networking opportunities. Our program explored the latest developments, emerging trends, and critical issues shaping the IP world, from ethical implications of Artificial Intelligence in research and development, to discussions on trademarks and the First Amendment, Standard Essential Patents licensing, PTAB, Section 101, transformative fair use following the recent Warhol v. Goldsmith decision, and more!
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Ann M. Mueting
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I am honored, and a bit overwhelmed, to take my turn as your next President. How could I not be after 30 years associating with some of the finest, smartest, and most dedicated professionals with whom I have had the honor to associate, and to call friends?
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The 2023 Annual Meeting kicked off with a fireside chat between Outgoing President Brian Batzli and the US Patent and Trademark Office's Commissioner for Patents, Vaishali Udupa, who assumed her role in January 2023.
Udupa – whose journey to become the Commissioner began when she was in college and interviewed with the USPTO but due to her Canadian citizenship at the time could not immediately get a job there – reflected on her year so far and the goals of the Office.
She discussed the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in classification process and the challenges of training AI models. She noted the USPTO's recently launched virtual assistant on its website to enhance user-friendliness, which uses AI to gather information and answer user queries. Udupa addressed the decommissioning of EFS web and Private PAIR, addressing backup plans for Patent Center to avoid disruptions.
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She gave an update on recent USPTO actions and issues under consideration, including improving the Office’s processes, engaging with librarians around the country to increase USPTO visibility and resources availability, addressing robust and reliable patents, mentioning a rulemaking on PTAB Director review, considering guidance for inventors and AI, improving trademark processing, DOCX, Section 101 legislation, and more. Vidal continued to encourage stakeholder feedback saying, "we recognize that we benefit from continuous feedback."
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The Ethics Plenary this year, moderated by Elise Selinger of Caterpillar, Inc., featured Emil Ali of McCabe Ali, LLP and Jared Correia of Red Cave Law Firm Consulting. The discussion centered around key considerations for the ethical and successful practice of law.
They emphasized that choosing the appropriate legal structure is essential, considering ethical implications and long-term goals, along with tax implications and partnership objectives.
Additionally, they strongly encouraged participants to take a systematic approach to conflicts of interest checks and considerations, rather than relying solely on memory. Ali noted that while you may not have 100% level of confidence every time, you need to have a "reasonable assurance" that you are catching conflicts most of the time.
They noted that effective risk management involves securing data during technology upgrades, conducting security audits, understanding technology and not simply outsourcing it, and obtaining insurance against cyber threats.
On marketing, they encouraged adherence to traditional practices while remaining mindful of differences between state law and USPTO guidelines, cautioning the use of pitches like “I'm the best patent attorney" or "I guarantee I will get you a patent on your invention." Clear communication was emphasized as an integral part of risk management, both with clients and within the firm.
Considering remote work, they highlighted the need to address jurisdictional requirements, tax implications, and ensure compliance with state and federal laws. To enhance operations, law firms were encouraged to adopt customer-relations management (CRM) systems and efficient workflow programs.
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![Upcoming Webinars](https://www.aipla.org/images/default-source/news-publications/upcoming-webinars.jpg?sfvrsn=e11647f8_3)
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Upcoming Events
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AIPLA 2024 Annual Meeting
October 24 to 26, 2024
Join us as we bring IP professionals together to learn and connect. More information coming soon! The 2024 Annual meeting will take place at the Gaylord National Harbor Resort. Leadership Meetings on Wednesday, October 23. Programming scheduled October 24-26. -
2024 Annual Meeting
October 24 to 26, 2024
Join us as we bring IP professionals together to learn and connect. More information coming soon! The 2024 Annual meeting will take place at the Gaylord National Harbor Resort. Leadership Meetings on Wednesday, October 23. Programming scheduled October 24-26. -
2025 Leadership Forum
January 29 to 30, 2025
AIPLA Leadership Forum – Elevate Yourself, Inspire the Future. This invitation-only two-day program will address building strong leadership skills for all levels of experience. More details coming soon. -
2025 AIPLA Spring Meeting
May 13 to 15, 2025
The 2025 Spring Meeting Planning Committee is now accepting topic submissions through their Call For Topics form. Registration opens February 2025. More details coming soon!