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Alicia Griffin Mills

I ask a lot of questions – how else can we translate cutting-edge technology to words on a page?

Contact: P /612.604.6550E /[email protected]

Education

Duke University School of Law, J.D., 2000

University of Southern California, B.S., Environmental Engineering, 1997

Bar Admissions

Minnesota, 2000

United States Patent and Trademark Office, 2000

My Approach

One of my favorite aspects of my role as a patent prosecutor is working with clients to develop a portfolio strategy. Patents and how they are handled can be the lifeblood for your organization, and I love working with clients to make sure they get the best value out of their intellectual property.

I also put a very strong emphasis on truly understanding the technology at issue. My background in engineering helps, but my clients are the true experts in their fields. I’m never shy about asking all the questions I need to in order to drill down to the most intricate, technical details of your innovation and correctly translate it onto paper. The goal is to make sure that your intellectual property is protected comprehensively, and I go to great length to make sure we achieve that goal.

Prior to joining Winthrop & Weinstine, I oversaw all aspects of intellectual property legal affairs for two large, global technology companies. The experience I gained there informs how I work with my clients. I’ve been the client. I have a real understanding of the demands and needs of that office.

Outside of work, I do a lot of running and cycling.  I also love cooking, cocktails, and wines.

A Groundbreaking Moment in my Career

When I first joined Imation’s legal department, right away the General Counsel asked me to look at an issue the company was having. I had previously been in private practice, where we usually assessed the situation, and then provided three different possible approaches, with pros and cons for each, so I did just that, and presented the options to our GC. The next question surprised me: “So what are we going to do?” As outside counsel, I had only ever before given my client the three possible paths. I suddenly realized the weight that was on the shoulders of those decision-makers, but also realized that, with my background and analysis of the matter, I was in the best possible spot to make a recommendation. I now have a better appreciation for not only presenting the options to my clients, but also telling them “I would choose this path, and this is why.”

Practice Areas

Practicing Patent Law & Prosecution

My Experience

I represent clients in all aspects of patent prosecution, including managing entire portfolios, and dealing with issues such as trade secrets, joint development agreements, licensing and ownership matters, and due diligence in conjunction with M&A and transactional agreements. I have represented global companies, as well as emerging ones, and assisted with trans-border matters.

I also have extensive experience performing analysis of infringement and developing portfolio strategy.

Also experienced in

Trademark & Brand Protection

Technology & Intellectual Property Transactions

Associations & Memberships

Minnesota Intellectual Property Law Association

Board Member, 2008-2015

Minnesota State Bar Association

Assembly Member, 2008-2014

Hamline University School of Law

Adjunct Professor, Spring 2009

Chippewa Advisory Council

(Chippewa Middle School PTA)
President, 2016-2021

Mounds View Nordic Booster Club

President, 2018-present

River Valleys Girl Scouts

Troop Leader, 2012-2018

Greater Twin Cities Youth Symphonies

Board Member, 2008-2011

Bountifield International

Board Member, 2010

Mounds View Swim & Dive Booster Club

President Elect, 2021-present