Patents
Utility and design patent prosecution, portfolio management, freedom-to-operate analyses, and strategic counseling for startups and established innovators.
California Intellectual Property Attorneys
A San Francisco boutique law firm dedicated to safeguarding the intellectual property of inventors, creators, and enterprises across California and beyond.
What We Do
Comprehensive intellectual property counsel — from strategy and prosecution to enforcement and litigation.
Utility and design patent prosecution, portfolio management, freedom-to-operate analyses, and strategic counseling for startups and established innovators.
Trademark clearance, registration, brand protection, and opposition proceedings before the USPTO and TTAB.
Copyright registration, licensing, DMCA enforcement, and protection for creative works, software, and digital media.
Trade secret programs, NDA and employment agreements, and enforcement under the Defend Trade Secrets Act and California law.
Skilled representation in infringement disputes before federal courts, the ITC, and alternative dispute resolution forums.
IP licensing, technology transfer, M&A due diligence, and commercialization strategies tailored to your business.
About the Firm
Founded in the heart of San Francisco, Smith, Harlow & Chen LLP is a boutique intellectual property law firm serving clients throughout California and across the United States. We combine deep technical expertise with nimble, personalized service that larger firms simply cannot match.
Our attorneys hold advanced degrees in engineering, computer science, and the life sciences, enabling us to speak the language of our clients — whether they are early-stage founders, creative professionals, or Fortune 500 corporations.
Our Team
Three partners. Decades of combined experience. One mission — protecting your intellectual property.
Founding Partner · Patent Litigation
Former USPTO examiner with 15+ years representing technology clients in complex patent disputes before federal courts nationwide.
Partner · Trademarks & Branding
Nationally recognized trademark strategist advising consumer brands, hospitality groups, and creative agencies on global brand protection.
Partner · Patent Prosecution
Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering. Specializes in software, semiconductor, and AI-related patent portfolios for emerging technology companies.
Get in Touch
We welcome inquiries from individuals and businesses seeking thoughtful counsel on their intellectual property matters. Reach out today to arrange a complimentary initial consultation.