Michael G. Rhodes

Michael G. Rhodes is a highly regarded trial lawyer specializing in patent and intellectual property litigation, particularly for technology and internet companies. His practice primarily focuses on defending corporations against complex intellectual property claims, aligning with his recorded appearances in two defendant-side patent cases. Throughout his career, Rhodes has represented prominent clients such as Meta (Facebook), Google, eBay, Nintendo, NVIDIA, ServiceNow, LinkedIn, Open AI, Zoom, Coinbase, and Niantic (PokémonGo). His technology focus spans various areas, including internet platforms, social media, e-commerce, and cloud computing, as exemplified by his lead counsel role in Datacloud Technologies LLC v. Atlassian, Inc.

Rhodes spent 40 years at Cooley LLP, where he served as a senior partner and held significant leadership roles, including Global Chair of the firm's Litigation Department and co-chair of its internet practice. He achieved notable litigation successes, including winning three IP jury trials and settling another during trial for Meta (Facebook). He also secured a preliminary win for Facebook in a high-stakes patent case brought by Rembrandt Social Media LP concerning the "Like" button, where damages of approximately $500 million were sought. Additionally, he obtained two major defense verdicts for Facebook against patent infringement claims. While known for other high-profile jury trials, such as defending the Kardashian-Jenner family in a defamation case, his core IP litigation practice centered on technology patent defense.

Information regarding Michael G. Rhodes' specific involvement in PTAB or IPR proceedings is not reliably sourced in the available public records. He retired from Cooley LLP at the end of 2024.

Rhodes earned his J.D., with honors, from Loyola Law School in 1984 and a B.A. in History from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in 1980. He is admitted to practice in California and the 9th Circuit.