Mark Vrla resolves issues concerning patents, trade secrets, trademarks and unfair competition. An experienced intellectual property lawyer with a background in engineering, Mark provides legal advice that is actionable, strategic, and reinforces his clients’ competitive edge and optimizes their commercial agenda, goals and bottom line. He works collaboratively with companies of all sizes to understand market positioning, challenges and opportunities to devise protective strategies for his clients’ innovative ideas.

Mark prosecutes U.S. and foreign patent and trademark applications, analyzes patents and provides opinions on patent infringement and validity, conducts trademark search and clearance, litigates patent issues, and negotiates patent and trademark licenses. He has represented clients involved in many industries, including electrical and electronic components, electrical power systems, hydraulic systems, medical devices, household appliances, industrial packaging equipment, aseptic and other consumer packaging, motor vehicles and components, and wastewater treatment, among others. 

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As a car enthusiast with an engineering background, I am a quick study when it comes to understanding inventions of various types, particularly mechanical ones."
Credentials

Education

  • University of Illinois College of Law, J.D., 1997, magna cum laude
  • University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, B.S., engineering, 1982

Bar Admissions

  • Illinois
  • U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

Court Admissions

  • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit
  • U.S District Court for the Western District of Michigan
  • U.S District Court for the Central District of Illinois
  • U.S District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
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