**Patent Strategies and Building Strong Relationships: Insights from an In-House Counsel**
In the realm of intellectual property, patent strategy plays a crucial role in protecting innovations and fostering growth. This week, our discussion on IPWatchdog Unleashed delves into the world of patent strategy and offers insights on how outside counsel can collaborate effectively with in-house counsel to deliver what clients truly need.
Gary Lobel, the senior patent counsel for Reckitt, joins the conversation to share his expertise in managing global legal and intellectual property matters across various business units within the Reckitt family. With a focus on biotechnology, pharmacologic, and nutritional formulations, Gary spearheads the development and implementation of global intellectual property strategies. Drawing from his experience as Chief Patent Counsel for Nestlé and a patent attorney at Novartis, Gary brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.
What sets Gary apart is his keen intellect and thoughtful approach to every issue. His ability to navigate complex challenges with a strategic mindset akin to playing 3D chess sets him apart in the field. Our conversations with Gary always prove enlightening, offering unexpected insights and valuable perspectives.
During our discussion on patent strategy, Gary sheds light on key aspects such as working with patent examiners, navigating challenging rejections, and the importance of effective communication. He emphasizes the value of outside counsel in delivering results that align with the client’s expectations.
According to Gary, the hallmark of exceptional outside counsel lies in providing value for the dollar. He recounts a memorable encounter with a proactive attorney who offered valuable insights at no charge, demonstrating a commitment to delivering exceptional service. By thinking outside the box and offering innovative solutions, outside counsel can truly make a difference in supporting their clients’ needs.
Communication emerges as a critical factor in the success of any legal partnership. When outside counsel and in-house counsel are not in sync, the quality of work suffers, leading to unnecessary complications and barriers to effective protection. Gary highlights the importance of open communication and collaboration to ensure a seamless working relationship.
In-house counsel often need to understand the intricacies of the invention and product to effectively guide the patent process. While some may hesitate to engage with outside counsel due to billing concerns, fostering transparent communication is essential for achieving the desired outcomes. As Gary aptly puts it, the patent application may capture the essence of the invention, but the true goal is to protect the entire “elephant.”
To listen to the full conversation with Gary Lobel, tune in to IPWatchdog Unleashed on your preferred podcast platform or visit Buzzsprout for more insights. As the conversation unfolds, valuable lessons and perspectives on patent strategy and relationship building come to light, shedding light on the dynamic landscape of intellectual property.
**Value for Dollar: Differentiating Exceptional Outside Counsel**
In the realm of patent law, the value proposition offered by outside counsel plays a pivotal role in shaping successful partnerships. Gary Lobel, the senior patent counsel for Reckitt, emphasizes the importance of receiving value for the dollar when engaging with external legal support. By delivering results that align with the client’s expectations and providing innovative solutions, outside counsel can distinguish themselves in a competitive landscape.
Gary’s encounter with a proactive attorney who offered valuable insights at no charge underscores the significance of going above and beyond to support clients. By offering unique perspectives and thinking outside the box, outside counsel can demonstrate their commitment to delivering exceptional service and fostering long-term partnerships.
The ability to see beyond the surface level and delve into the core of the invention is crucial for effective patent procurement. While the patent application may capture certain elements of the innovation, the overarching goal is to protect the entire concept comprehensively. This requires a collaborative approach between in-house counsel and outside counsel to ensure a holistic understanding of the invention and its potential implications.
Effective communication serves as the foundation for successful legal partnerships. When outside counsel and in-house counsel are aligned in their objectives and strategies, the work product is enhanced, leading to more robust protection for innovations. By fostering open dialogue and transparency, legal teams can navigate complex challenges and achieve optimal outcomes for their clients.
In conclusion, the value proposition offered by outside counsel extends beyond legal expertise to encompass strategic insights, innovative solutions, and effective communication. By prioritizing value for the dollar and delivering results that exceed client expectations, outside counsel can differentiate themselves in a competitive landscape and build strong, enduring relationships with their clients.
