LAIPLA Presents

Washington in the West 2027

January 28, 2027

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel – Hollywood, California

Join LAIPLA for Washington in the West 2027, a full-day conference designed specifically for patent and trademark practitioners. This annual event offers engaging MCLE programming, valuable networking opportunities, and the opportunity to hear directly from the USPTO with timely insights into cutting edge IP issues.

We are excited to welcome back Director John A. Squires as our keynote luncheon speaker. He will discuss the latest developments in USPTO policy, the impact of emerging technologies like AI, patent eligibility, IPR and EPR proceedings, and other important issues affecting the IP community.

With over 5 hours of MCLE credit offered, register now for to hear from a wide variety of speakers including PTO representatives, in-house counsel, private practice attorneys, and subject matter experts. And make the most of your conference experience by moving freely between the dedicated patent and trademark tracks and choosing the sessions most relevant to your practice and interests. Scroll down to see the full list of MCLE panels being presented throughout the day. In addition to the educational programming, registration includes breakfast, lunch, networking breaks, and a cocktail reception.
Whether you’re looking to stay current on emerging IP issues, hear directly from USPTO leadership, or connect with fellow practitioners and industry leaders, Washington in the West offers a valuable opportunity to learn, exchange ideas, and strengthen professional connections. We hope to see you there!

Patent Track

Time

Panel Topic

08:30 AM

Registration & Breakfast

09:00 AM

IPR in Transition: The Numbers Behind the New PTAB Regime

10:00 AM

AI in the Innovation Cycle: Opportunities, Risks, and Best Practices

11:00 AM

Networking Break

11:15 AM 

Ex Parte Reexams: Trends and Best Practices

12:30 PM
Keynote Luncheon: Director Squires Presents an Update from the USPTO
02:00 PM
Insights from High-Value IP Litigation

03:00 PM

The AI-Powered IP Lawyer: Practical Workflows from Diligence to Disputes

04:00 PM

Networking Reception

Trademark Track

Time

Panel Topic

08:30 AM

Registration & Breakfast

09:00 AM

From Search to Strategy: How AI Is Changing Trademark Prosecution

10:00 AM

Parody, Platforms, and Protected Speech: Implications of Jack Daniel’s and Cox for Brand Owners

11:00 AM

Networking Break

11:15 PM 

Beyond the Clearance Search: What Trademark Lawyers Should Understand About Marketing

12:30 PM 

Keynote Luncheon: Director Squires Presents an Update from the USPTO

02:00 PM 

Look What You Made Me Trademark: Deep Fakes, Dupes, and Nontraditional Marks

03:00 PM 

Brand Protection or Brand Backlash? Navigating Enforcement in a Viral World

04:00 PM 

Networking Reception

Diamond Sponsors

Lincoln Sponsors

Jefferson Sponsors