Strain

Strain PLLC is a boutique intellectual property law firm based in Washington, D.C.. The firm emphasizes providing specialized intellectual property representation, counsel, and strategic insights into global IP law. It serves a diverse clientele, including multinational Fortune 500 companies, global investors, privately held U.S. and non-U.S. companies, research institutions, and technology-based startups. Strain PLLC does not appear in recent AmLaw or Chambers rankings.

The firm's IP litigation practice focuses on strategic patent portfolio management, patent disputes in U.S. district courts, and proceedings before the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). While not limited to specific technology areas, the firm's expertise is broad, encompassing complex patent prosecution, licensing, and strategic advice. Managing Partner Paul D. Strain is a chemical engineer with a background in patent examination and international IP issues, while Counsel Stephen G. Nagy's technical expertise spans materials science, nanoscience, and chemistry-related technologies.

Strain PLLC works across the spectrum of patent disputes. Its practice includes leading patent prosecution and licensing efforts, as well as serving as strategic, conflict, or specialized counsel alongside larger firms in complex litigation. The firm advises clients, including investors, on patent dispute resolution and strategy. Its sole tracked litigation appearance shows the firm acting as local counsel for the plaintiff, Orthosie Systems, LLC.

A notable case engagement for Strain PLLC includes its role as local counsel for plaintiff Orthosie Systems, LLC, in Orthosie Systems, LLC v. LoJack Corporation. In a related patent lawsuit brought by Orthosie Systems LLC against Geotab, the plaintiff ultimately agreed to drop the case without payment. Furthermore, Strain PLLC offers services related to the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB), including inter partes review (IPR), post-grant review (PGR), and covered business method review proceedings.

Key partners leading the firm's IP litigation efforts include Paul D. Strain, the managing partner, who has extensive experience in patent disputes before district courts, the ITC, and the USPTO's post-grant challenges. Heidi E. Strain, Counsel at the firm, is a seasoned patent litigator with substantial experience in ITC patent disputes, including a tenure as an Investigative Attorney for the U.S. government, and now focuses on patent dispute resolution and advising investors. Stephen G. Nagy, also Counsel, specializes in developing critical IP assets and strategic policy for early-stage startups.