Mark Vrla

Mark P. Vrla

Partner

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. 

Prior to attending law school, Mark worked in the commercial electric power industry for nearly 12 years. He has substantial experience in nuclear power plant design, construction, operation and maintenance. Mark’s understanding of how businesses operate, particularly having worked in-house, helps give him insight into understanding his client’s financial goals, working within existing management structures and adhering to critical deadlines.

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