Erik Milch | Proskauer Rose LLP

Erik Milch is a partner in the Litigation Department and a member of the Intellectual Property, Patent Law and Trials group.

Erik brings more than 20 years of experience litigating in key jurisdictions across the U.S., as well as before the International Trade Commission and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. As a first-chair trial lawyer, Erik litigates complex matters involving medical devices, life sciences instrumentation, pharmaceuticals, electrical and computer technology, and consumer products. He regularly counsels clients in a range of industries in connection with patent procurement, development of patent portfolios, patent licensing, valuation of patent portfolios in business transactions and transactional diligence.

Erik has extensive experience in all aspects of patent litigation from pre-filing through appeal, including enforcement of patents against competitors and defense of patent infringement allegations. His technical background includes microfluidics, lab automation, optical imaging instruments, wound closure, surgical instrumentation, orthopedics, autoinjectors, tissue resection and sealing, pharmaceuticals, haptic feedback systems, computer software, consumer products, fluid mechanics applications, automotive engines and mechanical and electrical components, aerospace propulsion and control systems, weapons systems, and telecommunications.

Erik has been consistently recognized in Chambers USA and IAM Patent 1000 for his significant expertise in patent litigation. He was also recognized as a “Top Lawyer” by The Washingtonian.

Prior to pursuing a legal career, Erik earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Georgia Tech, where he developed a deep appreciation for cutting-edge technology and its potential to drive progress. His background in engineering equips him with a unique ability to comprehend intricate technical concepts. This enables him to effectively navigate the intricate world of patent litigation, combining his legal skills with technical know-how to provide comprehensive and strategic counsel to his clients.

In addition to his academic accomplishments, Erik served as an officer in the United States Navy. His military background instilled in him a strong sense of discipline, leadership, perseverance, and attention to detail; qualities that continue to guide him in his legal practice.

Joseph Drayton | Proskauer Rose LLP

A first-chair trial lawyer, Joe Drayton has represented some of the nation’s most prominent companies across a wide array of industries in all facets of intellectual property (IP) litigation before both state and federal courts, as well as the International Trade Commission and American Arbitration Association.

Joe has more than two decades of experience specializing in both domestic and international intellectual property and complex commercial disputes, including patent, trade secrets, copyright, trademark and trade dress and false advertising across diverse industries. He also counsels clients in all aspects of IP acquisition, transfer, protection and enforcement.

Joe is a trusted advisor for several corporate executives and a national leader in the legal community. He is regularly recognized as one of the top lawyers in the U.S., having consistently been named to the IAM Patent 1000 list. Most recently, Joe received the C. Francis Stadford Award by the National Bar Association, the highest award bestowed by the association that is given to a member whose leadership, integrity, legal skills and devotion have inspired colleagues and contributed greatly to the legal profession. A longtime bar leader, Joe served as the 76th president of the National Bar Association and is also a former vice president and Board chair of the New York City Bar Association.

I. Simplifying complex technological concepts for the courtroom | 11:00am – 11:30am

II. Effective use of expert witnesses | 11:30am – 12:00pm

Break | 12:00pm – 12:10pm

III. Leveraging digital tools and demonstratives | 12:10pm – 12:40pm

IV. Strategies for effective opening and closing statements | 12:40pm – 1:10pm