Nic is a partner in Reed Smith’s IP, Tech & Data Group. He focuses on patent litigation in the pharmaceutical field, but has also litigated patents related to chemistry, electronics, biotechnology, medical devices, lasers and mechanical systems.
His representations in Hatch-Waxman Act patent infringement suits have resulted in the protection of the franchises for several blockbuster pharmaceutical products, such as Fosamax®, Fosamax® OW, Vasotec®, Pepcid®, Actonel®, Vioxx®, Temodar®, Singulair® and Nasonex®. Nic has also asserted and defended parties in non-Hatch-Waxman patent cases in the pharmaceutical field involving products such as Loprox®, Vanos®, Ziana® and Vasotec®. In addition, Nic challenged the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s rule denying the application of Hatch-Waxman Act patent term restoration to patents receiving a new, 20-year, patent term established by the Uruguay Round Agreements Act.
Nic participates in all facets of litigation, from initial case development through trial and appellate representation. He has been involved in all aspects of discovery, and has conducted Markman hearings, opening statements, witness presentation, closing arguments and appellate arguments before the Federal Circuit. Additionally, he has often coordinated the strategy and conduct of foreign corresponding trials related to cases co-pending in the United States.
Nic also organized and taught the patent litigation course at The University of Texas School of Law from 2008 to 2011 as an adjunct faculty member.
In addition to litigation matters, Nic also counsels clients on intellectual property enforcement matters, defensive and offensive litigation strategy, freedom to operate analysis, settlement negotiations, and licensing. He has also directed complex proceedings before the Patent Office involving challenges to asserted patents.