Darrick Hooker
Partner – Barnes & Thornburg LLP

 

Description of field of expertise

Darrick Hooker is a counselor and IP litigator with over 22 years of substantial experience representing Fortune 100, 500 and smaller companies in complex intellectual property litigation and appeals. He has specialized knowledge of handling IP infringement matters, both jury and non-jury, before federal district courts and also participated in appeals before the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.  His practice also includes counseling clients regarding the protection of patent, trade secret, copyright and trademark rights, including enforcement, risk assessment, licensing, and “freedom to operate” analyses of products, methods, and packaging. He has extensive experience working in the areas of consumer goods, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, health care, chemical, computer software, industrial, renewable energy, utility, mechanical engineering, and automotive and transportation industries.  He has a reputation for developing an in-depth understanding of client’s business and technology to successfully identify and manage intellectual property assets.

 

What advice would you offer to new attorneys interested in your field?

Develop Your Skills

  • Want to be an IP litigator? Develop your analytical and writing skills 
  • A patent prosecutor? Seek training from a highly skilled patent application drafter
  • An IP attorney? Seek out opportunities in all areas of IP, including patent, trademark, trade secrets and copyright. 

Never turn down an opportunity to work in non-IP areas 

  • Taking on a task outside of your comfort zone demonstrates your willingness to try something new.

Network throughout your career

  • Attend firm events and identify attorneys whose expertise and practice align with your career interests 
  • Join bar associations and attend external conferences to build relationships with other attorneys and potential clients.

Publish articles

  • Partner with a senior attorney to draft articles about hot IP topics to demonstrate your knowledge.

General Advice 

  • Do not be afraid to fail, because it will teach valuable lessons.
  • Be reliable, trustworthy, and highly reputable
  • Be involved in your community.
Visit Our Firm Page