John L. Hemmer
John Hemmer focuses his practice on utility and design patent counseling for device-related technologies. He works closely with clients to identify and protect innovation, develop and manage strategic patent portfolios, and leverage intellectual property (IP) to strengthen competitive advantage and support long-term business objectives. John also advises clients on freedom-to-operate analyses, due diligence investigations, licensing and joint development matters, and IP issues arising in corporate transactions and potential litigation.
John serves as co-leader of the firm’s technology IP non-disputes practice, co-leader of the firm’s aerospace and defense industry team, and deputy leader of the Philadelphia IP practice.
Drawing on his background in mechanical engineering, John helps clients secure and maximize the value of both utility and design patents across a broad range of technologies. He has experience with healthcare technologies and medical devices including autoinjectors, inhalers, orthopedic implants, robotic-assisted surgical systems, surgical instruments and methods, catheter and drug delivery systems, mobility devices, and scooters and wheelchairs. His practice also includes biotech manufacturing equipment; military helmets and tactical gear; industrial safety barriers; consumer products and packaging; sporting goods, fitness trackers, and athletic apparel; home security systems; smart speakers and displays; smartwatches and smart glasses; AR/VR systems and controllers; plumbing fixtures; cleantech technologies; automotive mechanisms; and pet accessories. Clients turn to John for his experience in design patents, particularly in protecting visually distinctive industrial designs for products and user interfaces for websites, apps, and other user-facing technologies.
Beyond his practice, John is active in community affairs. He volunteers for Neighborhood Bike Works, a nonprofit that empowers youth in underserved Philadelphia neighborhoods through cycling; CRC Watersheds, an organization dedicated to preserving the natural environment of the Chester, Ridley, and Crum Creek Valleys; and the Penn State Scholar Alumni Society, where he mentors students and fosters connections between alumni and students of the Schreyer Honors College.
