John Chau

John Chau is an experienced patent attorney who advises clients on intellectual property matters and patent strategies. He counsels clients from a broad range of industries including automotive, medical device, and software. He specializes in intellectual property matters that intersect with Japanese and U.S. patent laws, and is involved as a member of the IP Practice in Japan Committee of the AIPLA.  

• Handles intellectual property matters for a tier-one Japanese automotive supplier, to include both the Japanese company and its U.S. engineering and research arms
• Counsels clients on patentability, infringement, and freedom-to-operate matters
• Drafts and prosecutes patents relating to mechanical, electrical, and control systems technology for both the U.S. and Japanese patent office
• Prepares and negotiates advanced OEM research agreements in support of R&D activity with universities and national laboratories
• Represents clients before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)

His counsel is not just limited to patent preparation and prosecution, but includes export control, licensing and joint development agreements with university and U.S. government laboratories.  Prior to joining Honigman, John was seconded to the patent department of a Japanese automotive OEM. 

Practice Areas

Industries

Prior Experience

• Dinsmore & Shohl, LLP, Partner, 2016-2018
• Gifford Krass et al., Partner, 2007-2016
• Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. In-house Counsel (Secondment) 2010-2013
• United States Marine Corps, Executive Officer, Camp Pendleton, CA, 2001-2003

Education

Admissions

Awards

Super Lawyers Rising Star 2010

Blue and Gold Officer, United States Naval Academy

Operation Iraqi Freedom Medal

Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal

Professional & Community Involvement

Law Practice Management and Legal Administrators Section, State Bar of Michigan, Chair, 2017

Michigan State Bar Representative Assembly, 2016-current

News

Publications