Ashley E. LaValley

/My focus

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LITIGATION

I focus my practice on intellectual property litigation, particularly multi-patent infringement and trade secret disputes. I have represented clients in disputes involving a broad range of technologies and industries, including medical devices, network security, consumer goods, athletic equipment, and wireless tracking. 

From pre-filing investigations through trial and post-trial proceedings, I advise clients through all stages of litigation. Drawing on my technical background, I address complex technical issues and develop related litigation strategies tailored to each stage of a dispute. My experience includes conducting infringement, validity, and damages investigations; collaborating with technical and damages experts to develop infringement and damages theories; and briefing and arguing claim construction, summary judgment, and pre- and post-trial motions in courts across the country. 

I am also experienced in inter partes review proceedings before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board and related Federal Circuit appeals. In addition, I represent clients in trademark disputes and advise on brand protection strategy.

IP COUNSELING

Building on my litigation experience, I provide strategic counsel to clients regarding the procurement, protection, and enforcement of their intellectual property rights. I also advise technology companies on proactive measures to safeguard confidential information, including preparing non-disclosure agreements and developing protection strategies.

/Representative experience

• Complex IP litigation: Represented clients in federal and state courts in a wide range of technology sectors, including secure messaging, network security, wireless tracking, medical devices, artificial turf systems, and athletic equipment. 
• Appellate advocacy: Served as lead appellate counsel, including before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.  
• PTAB proceedings: As a registered patent attorney, represented clients in inter partes reviews (IPRs) and other post-grant proceedings before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) and related Federal Circuit appeals. 
• IP portfolio strategy: Leveraged extensive litigation background to counsel clients on building robust IP portfolios, including advising about IP procurement and enforcement strategies, informed by experience in defending and challenging IP rights in courts.

/Looking ahead

As connected technologies continue to expand across industries, patent litigation is likely to increase in areas such as automotive systems, content delivery platforms, and other software-driven innovations. Companies operating in these spaces should proactively evaluate their IP portfolios, freedom-to-operate positions, and competitive patent landscapes to identify enforcement risks and preserve strategic options.