An intellectual property practice rooted in mechanical engineering

Michael Henn’s IP law practice focuses on patent preparation and prosecution for a wide range of technologies including electronics, semiconductors, as well as oil and gas services. He routinely helps advise inventors on their intellectual property and draft patent applications to help secure the future of their work.

Michael has the ability to assess minute details without losing sight of the big picture. It is an important skill when drafting patent applications for complex ideas and systems, and he learned it while participating in a co-op as a mechanical engineer in the manufacturing industry — a field in which there are lot of moving parts, both literally and figuratively. Prior to practicing law, Michael worked for General Electric developing cost-saving automation processes that would later be applied at several plants. He also helped resolve issues that arose on the production line and ensured his facility was complying with company and state safety regulations, as well as those set by the International Organization of Standards (ISO).

Pursuing patent law was a no-brainer for Michael. He saw it as the perfect marriage between his analytical engineering talents and his interest in law. He has always loved working hands-on as an inventor, too. While in college, Michael created a prototype for a solar panel built on a single-rotating axis that maximized its exposure to the sun and completed a research project on solid state electrolytes and their conductivity compared to lithium ion batteries.

Keeping pace with the cutting edge

To Michael, success in IP law relies heavily on the ability to stay attuned to industry trends and new technologies, not just those in which you have a vested interest. It also requires strong communication skills and the ability to develop an exceptional IP strategy that clearly presents a client’s intended goals to the USPTO. Michael is both a skilled communicator and writer and was the Executive Editor of the Houston Journal of International Law while pursuing his law degree.

Michael makes it a priority to give back to his community through volunteer work. As a law student, he worked for the University of Houston’s Entrepreneurship and Community Development Clinic (ECDC) helping cash-strapped entrepreneurs establish their new businesses. During his free time, Michael also enjoys traveling, hanging out with family and friends, reading about WWII history and watching football. He never misses a chance to root for his Cincinnati Bengals.