Chicago is home to an ever-growing number of companies and is widely regarded as a burgeoning technology hub. Unsurprisingly, Illinois courts are also home to a large number of IP disputes—with Illinois consistently among the top five states in number of IP case filings and no signs of slowing down.
We are available to partner with counsel needing assistance on any intellectual property law matters as well as other commercial technology disputes in Illinois’s federal courts. Fitch Even’s Chicago office is conveniently located in the heart of the Loop, just two blocks away from the Everett McKinley Dirksen United States Courthouse, home to both the Eastern Division of the Northern District of Illinois and the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. We regularly appear as lead or local counsel in cases before these courts, participate in local bar organizations, and are familiar with the courts’ judges and procedures.
Many of our litigators are also members of the Northern District’s trial bar, a designation reserved for attorneys having significant trial experience. Should your case go to trial or have any other testimonial proceeding, we can appear in court with you as an advisor, as required under the court’s local rules. The Northern District’s motion practice is unique and unfamiliar to many; motions are typically noticed for presentment before a district court or magistrate judge as quickly as three days after filing. This practice permits parties to quickly and efficiently resolve disputes that may arise as a case proceeds, but can present logistical challenges for counsel outside of Illinois. We are available to attend these court hearings, arguing the motions as needed, or simply facilitating telephonic appearances.