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Stephen Kontos

Stephen Kontos

Head of Intellectual Property / Patents / Trademarks
  • Intellectual Property, Patents, Trademarks ...
  • Michigan, USPTO
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Biography

Leveraging my experience as outside intellectual property counsel to some of the largest companies in the world, I help in-house IP teams, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and startup founders strategically protect intellectual property that furthers business goals.

I have written and prosecuted over 500 patent and trademark applications in my career, most of which related to electronic or software-based technology.

Significant projects include:

- Patenting the autonomous vehicle platform of a large automotive company
- Securing patents related to fiber optic networks, satellite communication networks, media content delivery systems, and consumer products for major telecommunications companies
- Patenting medical sensors and surgical robots for medical device companies

I am a thought leader in various patent-related topics including subject matter eligibility issues under 35 U.S.C. § 101 and enablement issues under 35 U.S.C. § 112, particularly as they relate to electronics and software-based concepts. I actively participate in various national professional organizations and presently serve as the membership chair of the Michigan Intellectual Property Law Association (MIPLA).

Practice Areas
Intellectual Property
Patents
Patent Appeals, Patent Litigation, Patent Prosecution
Trademarks
Trademark Litigation, Trademark Registration
Business Law
Business Formation
Fees
  • Free Consultation
  • Credit Cards Accepted
Jurisdictions Admitted to Practice
Michigan
State Bar of Michigan
ID Number: P71607
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USPTO
ID Number: 60337
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Languages
  • English: Spoken, Written
Professional Experience
Head of Intellectual Property
VELN
- Current
Founder & Lead IP Attorney
PATENTXP PLLC Intellectual Property Law Firm
-
Partner / IP Attorney
Bejin Bieneman PLC
-
Associate Patent Attorney
Rader Fishman & Grauer PLLC (now Fishman Stewart PLLC)
-
Education
Wayne State University Law School
J.D. (2008)
Wayne State University Law School Logo
University of Detroit Mercy
B.S. (2003) | Electrical Engineering
Honors: Insignis Scholar, Eta Kappa Nu, Tau Beta Pi
Activities: Fencing Team, Titan Pep Band
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Awards
Super Lawyer (2019-2020)
Super Lawyers
Rising Star (2014-2018)
Super Lawyers
Pro Bono Recognition
US District Court Eastern District of Michigan
Professional Associations
State Bar of Michigan  # P71607
Member
Current
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United States Patent & Trademark Office  # 60337
Registered Lawyer
Current
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Publications
Articles & Publications
3 Ways Legal Departments Can Support LGBTQ+ Rights During Pride Month
Basic Startup Patent Strategy
The Key to Faster Trademark Registration
The Founder's Guide to Intellectual Property Strategy: How Successful Startups Protect Great ideas to Secure a Competitive Advantage
Choose the Right Business Name for Your Startup
StartupNation
Speaking Engagements
Turning Inventions Into Unicorns
1 Million Cups
Presentation on how startups can use intellectual property protection to increase the value of their business ahead of their exit.
Certifications
LGBT-Owned Law Firm
NGLCC
Websites & Blogs
Website
VELN
Legal Answers
10 Questions Answered
Q. How do I know if my idea infringes on a patent? Patents are very complicated. Do I make an appointment with a lawyer?
A: You should be working with a patent lawyer during the R&D process. In general, a patent lawyer can help you understand the scope of the patent, identify other patents in your technical area that might be of concern, and help you either design around any enforceable patents or seek a license from the patent owner. You should consult with a patent lawyer before you do anything that would be considered patent infringement.

DISCLAIMER I'm not your attorney. This is not legal advice. I do not guarantee any results.
Q. Is it possible to obtain a patent for a [NEVER SEEN] wooden portable toilet paper tissue holder.
A: Maybe. Patents are issued for inventions that are new, useful, and would not have been obvious. You may be able to secure a utility patent, a design patent, or both. A patent attorney can help you evaluate the likelihood of receiving meaningful patent protection during a private consultation. You should not publicly disclose any additional information about your concept.

DISCLAIMER I'm not your attorney. This should not be construed as legal advice. I do not guarantee any results.
Q. Hi there, I am a content creator on Instagram. My content has been flagged for false DMCA and copyright strikes.
A: Instagram should have provided you with instructions for submitting a counter-notification. Instagram should restore your content if the third-party doesn't reply, which it sounds like they won't since they used disposable domains.

DISCLAIMER I'm not your attorney. This isn't legal advice. I don't guarantee any results.
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Contact & Map
VELN
220 S. Main St.
Suite 233
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Telephone: (855) 954-5100
Monday: 9 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM - 5 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM - 5 PM
Thursday: 9 AM - 5 PM (Today)
Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed