Orange Book Blog

This morning, February 19, 2013, the Supreme Court will hear argument in one of
the most important patent cases in recent years-–Bowman v. Monsanto.  The case specifically addresses patent
exhaustion in the progeny of soybean seeds.  But the Court’s opinion in this
case could impact the protection of some of the most innovative
biotechnology inventions in the country–including those relating to progenitive or
self-replicating technologies.  The opinion may also impact the viability of
conditional sales of patented products.  And it could alter U.S. patent law in
a way that would have significant consequences for biotech firms and other
institutions involved in biotech research and development.

This afternoon, a CLE-eligible panel discussion is being hosted by the
American University Washington College of Law and the Federal Circuit Bar
Association.  The discussion will feature counsel for the parties and selected amici, and will be held
at the American University Washington College of Law in Washington, DC.  For the in-person discussion, attendees will be asked to take their
seats at around 4:15 pm EST.

The panel discussion may also be seen live on the internet.  The free webinar will be begin at 4:30 pm EST / 1:30 pm PST on the event
website.  No log-in will be required.

Scott P. McBride, a partner at McAndrews Held &
Malloy and contributor to Orange Book Blog, will be one of the panelists.  His team submitted an amicus
brief on behalf of over twenty universities and university-related
associations in the case, urging the Supreme Court to affirm the Federal
Circuit's decision in favor of of the patent owner, Monsanto.

For additional information about the case and panel discussion, please visit the event website.