Overview
John Chau is an experienced patent attorney known for providing high-impact intellectual property counsel across complex, technology-driven industries including automotive, medical devices, and software. He is deeply skilled in intellectual property matters that bridge Japanese and U.S. patent systems and serves as a member of the IP Practice in Japan Committee of the AIPLA. With this cross-cultural expertise, he strengthens global IP strategies for multinational clients, helping them protect and commercialize innovations across markets.
John’s practice includes:
- Securing robust patent protection for complex medical technologies, particularly those integrating software and control systems
- Handling intellectual property matters for a tier-one Japanese automotive supplier, representing both its Japanese and U.S. engineering and research divisions
- Counseling clients on patentability, infringement, and freedom-to-operate issues in both the U.S. and Japan
- Drafting and prosecuting patents for advanced mechanical, electrical, and software-controlled innovations before the USPTO and Japanese Patent Office
- Negotiating and drafting OEM research agreements supporting pioneering R&D collaborations with universities and national laboratories
This blend of technical depth and legal acumen positions John Chau as a trusted advisor to clients developing next-generation technologies. His counsel extends beyond patent prosecution to encompass strategic intellectual property guidance aimed at protecting, leveraging, and monetizing cutting-edge assets. Prior to joining Honigman, John was seconded to the patent department of a Japanese automotive OEM.
Services
Practice Areas
Industries
Experience
Prior Experience
- Dinsmore & Shohl, LLP, Partner, 2016-2018
- Gifford Krass et al., Partner, 2007-2016
- Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. In-house Counsel (Secondment) 2010-2013
- United States Marine Corps, Executive Officer, Camp Pendleton, CA, 2001-2003
Credentials
Education
- cum laude
- St. Thomas More Full-Tuition Academic Scholarship
Best Oralist, St. Thomas More Moot Court Competition - Vice President, Moot Court Board
- Control Systems Engineering
- Class Vice President, Honor Representative
Admissions
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
- Michigan
Recognition
Awards
Super Lawyers Rising Star 2010
Blue and Gold Officer, United States Naval Academy
Operation Iraqi Freedom Medal
Navy/Marine Corps Commendation Medal
The Best Lawyers in America, 2026
- Recognized in the areas of Litigation - Intellectual Property and Patent Law
Professional & Community Involvement
Law Practice Management and Legal Administrators Section, State Bar of Michigan, Chair, 2017
Michigan State Bar Representative Assembly, 2016-current