Laura Whitworth ‘16
Laura is a decorated alumna of the American University, Washington College of Law (WCL). Laura was involved with the Intellectual Property Brief for all three years as a law student, eventually becoming the Senior Patent Editor. She also served as the Senior Federal Circuit Editor for the American University Law Review and was a Dean’s Fellow for the Legal Rhetoric program during her 2L and 3L years.
Currently, Laura works as an associate at Fish & Richardson. Her practice focuses on all aspects of patent infringement matters in the Federal Circuit. She has assisted clients throughout different phases of patent litigation, including formulating technical stances concerning infringement and invalidity, conducting fact-finding procedures, interpreting claims, preparing expert reports, and composing legal documents. Her expertise extends to collaborating with clients across various technological domains, such as digital signal processing for mobile devices, smartphone image processing, hybrid vehicle advancements, and spinal implant technology.
What doctrinal classes would you recommend students take if interested in Intellectual Property Law?
Laura recommends taking Administrative Law, Licensing, and Intellectual Property. Laura also emphasizes that if you are especially interested in litigation, Evidence and Civil Procedure are some of the most important classes to give your full attention to.
What lawyering skills have you developed the most through your work?
Law school really prepares you on how to study and understand law, but it doesn’t prepare you on how to practice it. You learn a lot of the more practical skills while on the job.
What advice would you give to law students at AUWCL?
Definitely take advantage of alumni, professors, events, [and] D.C. Find groups of people with the same interests as yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask alumni or professors for help in getting a foot in the door for a field you’re interested in practicing in. Generally, everyone is super nice and willing to help out anybody looking for some assistance. Take full advantage of the area. D.C. is a small community, and networking is an important skill to develop and master.