American University Law Review Annual Federal Circuit Symposium
Experts Discuss Key Issues In the Legal Field
American University Law Review held its Annual Federal Circuit Symposium at American University Washington College of Law on October 20. The event featured four thought-provoking panels that delved into crucial areas of Trademark law, Patent and International Trade Law, Veterans Law, and Government Contracts Law.
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A notable feature of the event was the fireside chat with The Honorable Raymond Chen, a circuit judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Vaishali Udupa, the commissioner for patents at the USPTO, who served as the keynote speaker, underscored the connection between the USPTO and Federal Circuit Courts.
"If the USPTO approves or disapproves a patent, claimants can appeal through the Federal Circuit Courts,." She said.
Udupa also highlighted the critical role of student clinics, such as the Glushko-Samuelson Intellectual Property Law Clinic AUWCL, in providing assistance to those in need.
The trademark panel, moderated by Professor Christine Farley, discussed the constitutionality of Lanham Act provisions protecting innovators.
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In a panel on government contracting, practitioners examined the implications of the Supreme Court's recent decision in the Harvard-UNC cases. The discussion on the role of patents in international trade, moderated by Professor Charles Duan and featuring Adam Mossoff, Chris Paulraj, Matthew Bathon, and Michelle Aspen, emphasized the need for improved justice within the International Trade Commission (ITC).
“The ITC requires greater transparency and information about who is using it and who is benefiting from it.” Mossof said.
In the final panel on Veterans Law, participants discussed the limitations for veterans seeking educational opportunities under the G.I. Bill, emphasizing the need to strike a balance between supporting veterans and fiscal constraints.
“The discussions and insights throughout the symposium were a testament to the caliber of our distinguished keynote speakers, esteemed panelists, and the engaged participation of our attendees,” Breqlyne Johnson, 3L, senior federal circuit editor for the American University Law Review said. “Throughout the program, we were able to explore a wide array of topics that showcase the intricate and ever-evolving nature of the Federal Circuit Courts and their profound impact on our legal landscape.”
~Story by Hasini Jayawardena.