William R. Haulbrook, PhD

Bill Haulbrook leads Choate’s Digital Biotech and Engineering disciplines, counseling technology companies and their investors. He has a depth of experience in drafting and prosecuting patent applications, as well as handling patent licensing, patent validity research and analysis, and IP and freedom-to-operate opinions.

An increasing amount of Bill’s work involves artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML) patent litigation and patent portfolio development. His AI work includes biomarker- and image-based diagnostics, drug development, big data processing, and novel neural network architecture.

Recognition

  • “IP Star” by Managing Intellectual Property (2016-2023)
  • “Top Ten Intellectual Property Lawyers Influencing Nanotechnology” by Nanotechnology Law and Business (2008)

Representative Engagements

  • Ongoing representation of large medical imaging and diagnostics company with respect to IP protection and strategic partnerships.
  • Development of patent portfolios for start-ups, venture-backed companies, public companies, and research institutions.
  • Advising clients in patent reexaminations, oppositions, and pre-litigation strategies.
  • Advising clients in joint development agreements and IP licensing issues.
  • Performing IP diligence for clients seeking investor financing.
  • Performing IP diligence for inventors interested in technology companies.

Publications and Presentations

  • “101 Update & Industry Perspectives – Diagnostics & Bioinformatics,” moderator, BIO IPCC Fall Conference, November 2016.
  • “Using Post-Grant Proceedings to Challenge Pharma Patents,” author, IP Law360.
  • “A Push by the USPTO for Faster Patent Processing,” author, IP Law360.
  • “Walking the Line: Advice for Patent Agents on Interacting with Clients without Direct Attorney Supervision,” panelist, Boston Patent Law Association Seminar, Boston.
  • “Clean Energy Fellowship Program,” panelist, New England Clean Energy Council, Boston.
  • “Strategic Choices in Nanotech Funding and IP Protection,” moderator, Nano Science and Technology Institute Conference, Boston.
  • “Nanotechnology: Strategies for Securing and Protecting Patents and Copyrights,” panelist, Strafford Publications CLE Teleconference.
  • “Nanotech Patents: Tips for Getting the Patent Protection You Need,” co-author and presenter, Nano Science and Technology Institute Conference, Santa Clara.
  • “Getting a Handle on the Software Patent Explosion,” author, IPFrontline, Patent Strategy and Management.

Education & Credentials

University of North Carolina School of Law
JD, 2001, cum laude

Massachusetts Institute of Technology
PhD, 1993, Chemical Engineering
MS, 1991

University of South Carolina
BS, 1989

Admissions

Massachusetts

U.S. Patent & Trademark Office

William's Insights