Carl E. Schlier
Partner
Tel (703) 413-3000

Carl E. Schlier

Partner

CARL E. SCHLIER is a partner in the firm's Electrical Patent Prosecution and Litigation practice groups. As a former engineer and scientist for IBM Federal Systems Division, he possesses years of practical industry expertise and a deep understanding of the science and technology underlying his clients’ innovations.

Mr. Schlier represents manufacturers and research organizations, preparing and prosecuting patent applications and patentability and infringement opinions in a wide range of electrical technologies, including consumer electronics, computer hardware, software, magnetic media and medical imaging devices. He focuses on semiconductor technology, having extensive experience in semiconductor memories (in particular flash memories) and three-dimensional bonding of semiconductors. Mr. Schlier regularly litigates a full range of patent cases on behalf of clients in federal district court, with an emphasis on multi-defendant cases.

In addition to litigating and prosecuting patents, Mr. Schlier advises his clients on infringement avoidance, licensing, portfolio management and optimization, and reissue and reexamination strategies.

At IBM Mr. Schlier worked in the field of radiation effects on semiconductor devices and the development of CMOS semiconductor processes for military applications. He published several technical papers on the subject.

Mr. Schlier maintains a close working relationship with his clients, visiting their offices regularly to evaluate their innovations, determine business goals and develop ways to enhance their market position. He visits Japan often and spent six months living there in order to familiarize himself with his Japanese clients’ needs, culture and business operations. Mr. Schlier also works closely with client trainees in the U.S. office in order to guide them through the complexities of the U.S. legal system.

Representative Matters

Successfully defended Toshiba Corporation against Loral Fairchild Corporation on a patent related to a method of manufacturing charge-coupled devices. After a seven-day trial, the asserted patent was found invalid and no infringement was found. (E.D.N.Y.).

Successfully defended Toshiba Corporation in a suit brought by Dr. Chou Li involving semiconductor manufacturing technology. After a one-day bench trial, Li was found to have engaged in inequitable conduct, rendering the patent in suit unenforceable. The decision was upheld on appeal. (E.D. Va.).