Rudy I. KratzPartner

A partner in the firm's Chicago office, Rudy I. Kratz supervises Fitch Even's International Practice Group. In this role, he counsels clients seeking patent protection in key jurisdictions and in developing and implementing international IP protection strategies. Rudy also manages the firm's relationships with an extensive network of leading firms across the globe.

In addition to his focus on international IP protection, Rudy handles IP procurement and counseling matters in the United States. He assists clients with U.S. patent preparation and prosecution and with opinions regarding patentability, infringement, and validity.

With a technical background in physics, Rudy has worked with clients engaged in a variety of mechanical and electrical fields. He also assists with the enforcement of IP through licensing and litigation.

Auto Meter Products, Inc. v. Maxima Technologies & Systems, LLC (N.D. Ill. 2005). Represented Plaintiff in a trademark and trade dress infringement action involving automotive measuring instruments. Settlement reached.

The Chamberlain Group Inc. v. Lear Corp., et al. (N.D. Ill., 2001). Represented Plaintiff in a patent infringement action involving rolling code encryption technology for use with garage door openers. Settlement reached.

Chemetall GmbH v. ZR Energy, Inc., et al. (7th Cir. 2001). Represented Plaintiff in appeal of jury verdict and judgment in favor of Plaintiff in a trade secret misappropriation action involving zirconium metal powder. Judgment affirmed.

DESA IP, LLC, and HeathCo, LLC v. EML Technologies, LLC and Costco Wholesale Corp. (M.D. Tenn. 2004). Represented Plaintiff in patent infringement action involving motion-sensing security lights. Settlement reached.

Harvest Technologies Corporation v. Cytomedix, Inc. (D. Mass. 2002). Represented Defendant in declaratory judgment action regarding infringement of wound treatment patents. Settlement reached after a weeklong trial.

In re Certain Garage Door Operators Including Components Thereof (ITC 2001). Represented Complainant in International Trade Commission action involving patent infringement of remote learning technology for use with garage door openers. Settlement reached.

Microchip Technology Corporation v. The Chamberlain Group Inc. (D. Ariz. 2001). Represented Defendant in declaratory judgment action in district court and on appeal regarding patent infringement of remote learning technology for use with garage door openers. Action dismissed and attorneys’ fees awarded to Defendant.