Christopher A. Pinahs practices intellectual property law, with an emphasis on patent and trademark litigation. Applying his background in the biological sciences, Chris has extensive experience representing clients in the pharmaceutical, medical device, and agricultural arts.
In all arenas, Chris uses his technical background to help clients develop their case and implement an appropriate strategy to achieve their business goals.
Chris has significant trial experience, including the representation of a generic manufacturer in its challenge of several patents directed to Purdue’s multibillion-dollar OxyContin product.
Chris was also part of the team that upheld this verdict on appeal at the Federal Circuit. More recently, Chris was a member of a trial team that prevailed on several patents directed to the Alzheimer’s drug, Namenda XR. Chris also handles trademark matters, successfully defeating a motion for preliminary injunction in the District of Minnesota.
In addition to his litigation practice, Chris has drafted IP-related agreements for agricultural clients, conducted IP-portfolio investigations for medical-device companies, and participated in freedom-to-operate investigations for telecommunication businesses
Chris is also active in the legal community, including pro bono representation through the Pro SeProject. He previously served as the chair of the Intellectual Property Practice Group for the Minnesota Federal Bar Association (2015-2016), and currently serves as a member of the Grants Committee for the Minnesota Federal Bar Association.
Prior to working as an IP attorney, Chris was a law clerk to the Honorable David S. Doty in the United States District Court for the District of Minnesota. During law school, Chris was a legal writing instructor, a Managing Editor for the Minnesota Law Review, and studied to obtain his master’s degree in Plant Biological Sciences.
Education:
- University of Minnesota School of Law, J.D., (2011)
- University of Minnesota, M.S. (2012)
- Gustavus Adolphus College, B.A (2006)
Bar Admissions:
- Minnesota
- U.S. Court of Appeals, Federal Circuit
- U.S. District Court, District of Minnesota
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Professional Associations:
- Federal Bar Association
- Minnesota State Bar Association
Cost
Rate : $$$