Charles W. Calkins

Charles W. Calkins: Intellectual Property Attorney – Protecting Your Innovation

Charles W. Calkins is a seasoned and highly respected registered patent attorney with over two decades of experience guiding clients through the complex landscape of intellectual property. He’s not just a lawyer; he’s a strategic partner, deeply understanding the business value of innovation and dedicated to maximizing returns on investment for his clients. Mr. Calkins’ extensive background, encompassing client counseling, portfolio management, licensing, enforcement, and corporate transactional work, makes him uniquely positioned to address the diverse needs of companies and investors across a broad spectrum of industries, including life sciences, chemical, medical, and computer software.

Mr. Calkins' current practice centers around providing comprehensive legal counsel, from initial patent procurement strategies to sophisticated licensing agreements, merger and acquisition due diligence, and equity investment analysis. He possesses a remarkable track record of advising over 100 potential investments, acquisitions, and mergers, ranging in value from hundreds of thousands to over a billion dollars, working with a diverse clientele that includes companies, investment banks, private equity groups, and venture capitalists. His experience extends to navigating the complexities of government contracts, further solidifying his expertise in securing and protecting intellectual assets.

What truly sets Mr. Calkins apart is his holistic approach. He doesn’t simply focus on legal technicalities; he understands the commercial realities of intellectual property, enabling him to develop proactive strategies that align with his clients' business goals. This expertise is honed by his active engagement within the broader innovation ecosystem, as Chair of the Piedmont Angel Network and an investor in emerging technology companies. He’s an active participant in regional and national technology communities, providing valuable insights and connections. Furthermore, his role as Chair of the Scientific Advisory Board at the University of North Carolina Greensboro underscores his commitment to fostering scientific advancement and innovation.

Practice Areas

Mr. Calkins’ practice encompasses a wide array of intellectual property matters, offering clients comprehensive legal support:

• Biotechnology and Life Sciences Practice: Specialized expertise in patent prosecution and enforcement within the life sciences sector, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and medical devices.
• Litigation – Intellectual Property: Aggressive advocacy in intellectual property litigation, including patent infringement, trade secret misappropriation, and trademark disputes.
• Litigation – Patent: Highly experienced in handling complex patent litigation, ensuring optimal outcomes for clients.
• Patent Law: Expert legal counsel on all aspects of patent law, including patentability assessments, prosecution, and licensing.
• Corporate and Transactional Intellectual Property: Strategic support for mergers, acquisitions, and equity investments involving intellectual property assets, including comprehensive due diligence.

Awards & Recognition

Mr. Calkins’ dedication to excellence has been consistently recognized by his peers and industry organizations:

• Lawyer of the Year: Patent Law, Triad (2025, 2024, 2023, 2021, 2020)
• Lawyer of the Year: Litigation - Patent, Greensboro (2019, 2017, 2015, 2013)
• Lawyer of the Year: Patent Law, Greensboro (2018, 2022)
• Recognized: Biotechnology and Life Sciences Practice, Litigation - Intellectual Property, Litigation - Patent, Patent Law
• Special Focus: Biotechnology, Business Planning, COVID-19, Licensing, Patent, Transactions

Education & Credentials

• Registered Patent Attorney – Licensed to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
• Extensive Experience: Over 20 years of experience in client counseling and portfolio management within the areas of patent procurement, licensing, and enforcement.
• Strategic Advisor: Provides strategic counsel on intellectual property matters related to investments, acquisitions, and mergers.
• Community Leader: Chair of the Piedmont Angel Network and Chair of the Scientific Advisory Board at University of North Carolina Greensboro.

Affiliations

• Piedmont Angel Network: Active investor and supporter of emerging technology companies.
• University of North Carolina Greensboro – Scientific Advisory Board: Contributes expertise to the university's research and development efforts.
• Best Attorney USA: Recognized since 2007

Location

Mr. Calkins is based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, serving clients throughout the Triad region and across the United States. He is dedicated to providing tailored, results-oriented legal solutions to protect and advance his clients’ intellectual property assets. Contact Charles W. Calkins today to discuss your specific needs and how his expertise can benefit your business.