Biography
With more than two decades of practice drafting and prosecuting domestic and international patents in a wide range of technologies, Andy Smith brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding to his representation of many industry-leading companies.
Andy secures clients’ valuable patent rights for innovations with a particular emphasis on computer technologies, including artificial intelligence, mobile device applications, software systems and data processing, Internet and web-enabled business applications, mechanical devices, and interfaces. Additionally, Andy has worked on patents related to process control management systems, semiconductors and computer memory management, internet business solutions, dental and surgical handpieces, automobile roof and heating systems, and beer brewing technologies, among other things.
Before pursuing a career in law, Andy served as a captain in the United States Army and continues to be actively involved in supporting veterans and their families.
Representative Experience
- Prepared and prosecuted patent applications in a wide range of technologies, including artificial intelligence systems, machine learning, cellular communications methods, data security and privacy methods, and green technologies.
- Researched, organized, and conducted training for colleagues and associates on U.S. and foreign patent application preparation and prosecution including Office Action response argumentation, drafting for subject matter acceptance, prosecution strategy, examiner interviewing, and various aspects of the patent appeals process.
- Counseled IP managers on options to pursue patent rights in various computer-related technologies, providing freedom to operate and patentability opinions. As a result, the managers were able to invest in those company innovations that had the most promise in crowded technological areas.
- Helped implement intellectual property management strategies at several small and start-up companies as well as global corporations.
Background and Credentials
Andy has helped clients patent their computer technologies since he earned his J.D. from DePaul University College of Law. Combining technical training with his legal studies, Andy also completed a Master of Science in Computer Science at DePaul, where he focused on software design and programming, as well as database system design and artificial intelligence.
Andy worked at Marshall Gerstein for nearly a decade before joining another Chicago-based law firm in 2014, where he continued to prepare and prosecute patent applications across a wide range of technologies before returning to Marshall Gerstein in 2025.
In addition to his extensive legal work, Andy's experience as a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point and former U.S. Army officer makes him a seasoned and committed advocate to protect clients’ patent rights.
Education
- DePaul University College of Law (J.D.)
- DePaul University (M.S.)
- Computer Science
- United States Military Academy at West Point (B.S.)
Bar Admissions
Community and Professional Involvement
- The Folded Flag Foundation, Ambassador (2017-2019)
Military and Government Service
- United States Army (Captain)