Michael P. Shepherd

Michael P. Shepherd is a Principal at Fish & Richardson whose practice centers on patent prosecution and client counseling for software, artificial intelligence, and complex computer technologies. His work in these areas is informed by his technical background as an embedded software engineer at Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. Shepherd's expertise covers a wide range of technologies, including machine learning, computer architecture, robotics, and cloud computing.

While his practice is primarily focused on patent prosecution, Shepherd is involved in patent disputes. In the single tracked case, he represents the plaintiff, Krisp Technologies, Inc., in a software patent dispute against Sanas.AI Inc., appearing in an "of counsel" role. The limited public record of his litigation appearances prevents a broader characterization of a side preference. Shepherd frequently writes and publishes expert analyses on evolving standards for patent eligibility under Alice, a key issue in software patent litigation.

Shepherd has significant experience in post-grant proceedings before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB). He is the Vice-Chair of the Committee on Appeals to the PTAB for the PTAB Bar Association and has been recognized by the association for his pro bono work representing inventors in ex parte appeals.

He holds a J.D. (2009) from the Benjamin N. Cardozo School of Law, an M.S. in Computer Science (2005) from Syracuse University, and a B.S. in Computer Science (2002) from the University of Notre Dame. He is admitted to the bars of California, New York, and the District of Columbia, and is registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.