Brinks Gilson & Lione

Brinks Gilson & Lione was a distinguished intellectual property (IP) boutique, historically headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with a footprint that included additional offices across the United States and in Shenzhen, China. Prior to its acquisition by Crowell & Moring on July 2, 2021, the firm was recognized as one of the largest IP law firms in the U.S., once boasting over 160 attorneys. It consistently held top-tier national rankings by U.S. News – Best Lawyers in categories such as Patent Law and Litigation-Intellectual Property.

The former Brinks Gilson & Lione maintained a comprehensive patent litigation practice, advising clients across a broad spectrum of industries. Its expertise spanned complex technology areas including pharmaceuticals, chemicals, bioengineering, industrial manufacturing, electronics, software, medical devices, and automotive components. The firm also engaged with cutting-edge innovations in fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous vehicles, wireless/5G, and blockchain. Within its tracked appearances, the firm notably represented defendants, indicating a preference for defending operating companies.

A tracked appearance for the firm, IoT Innovations LLC v. Monitronics International, Inc., filed in January 2023, involved defense representation for Monitronics International, Inc., doing business as Brinks Home, in a patent infringement suit related to smart home security systems. It is important to note that this case was filed after Brinks Gilson & Lione was acquired by Crowell & Moring.

The firm possessed significant experience in post-grant proceedings before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB). Peter S. Lee, a prominent IP litigation attorney at the former Brinks Gilson & Lione, was known for his expertise in managing IPRs and other post-grant proceedings, particularly in electrical and computer arts, including consumer electronics and medical devices. This robust PTAB practice was integrated into Crowell & Moring's intellectual property capabilities following the acquisition.

While Bryan S. Hales was listed as lead counsel for the defendant in the IoT Innovations case in the tracked data, it is important to note that Bryan Hales is currently an experienced first-chair trial lawyer focusing on patent and trade secret litigation at Kirkland & Ellis LLP. Peter S. Lee, mentioned in the firm's historical profile, brought substantial experience in patent prosecution and PTAB proceedings to his role at the former Brinks Gilson & Lione.