Press Releases

ANN ARBOR - Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione, one of the largest intellectual property law firms in the U.S., announces the Ann Arbor office has been recognized by Michigan Lawyers Weekly magazine as a 21st Century Innovator for its creation of an electronic master file system that significantly reduces work cycle time and offers clients secure, remote access to their files. The legal trade publication honored 21 Michigan-based law firms for "innovative problem-solving strategies that have set them apart from the rest of Michigan's talented legal community." The firms were celebrated at the 2009 21st Century Innovators awards ceremony on Sept. 10, 2009 at the Troy Marriott.

Kelly K. Burris, a shareholder in the office who masterminded the file system, has led the effort and is directing its implementation, says that while thorough documentation is required of the legal profession, she saw a more efficient way to manage it.

"With the new electronic master filing system, our attorneys and clients have secure access to the information they need without excessive and wasteful paper storage and filing space," explained Ms. Burris. "Whether we are in our own offices or at a client site, we can quickly retrieve any document and our clients can, too."

Steven L. Oberholtzer, the managing partner of the firm's Ann Arbor office, said the electronic files initiative is reflective of the office's innovative spirit.

"As intellectual property attorneys, we are immersed in the innovation process through our clients, who are creators, inventors and game changers. That daily exposure to innovation has a positive impact on how we manage our own office as well," noted Mr. Oberholtzer.

Founded in 1917, Brinks Hofer Gilson & Lione is based in Chicago with five additional offices across the country, including Ann Arbor, serving the intellectual property needs of clients from around the world. The firm is one of the largest IP law firms in the country, with 180 attorneys, scientific advisors and patent agents specializing in intellectual property litigation and all aspects of patent, trademark, copyright, trade secret, unfair competition, intellectual asset management, and technology and licensing agreements. Brinks routinely handles assignments in fields as diverse as electrical, chemical, mechanical, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, nanotechnology, Internet and computer technology, as well as in trademarks and brand names for a wide variety of products and services.