Steven M. Evans

Steven M. Evans is a founding partner with extensive experience in patent litigation, intellectual property disputes, and commercial trial work. His practice integrates technical engineering insight with seasoned courtroom advocacy, allowing him to guide clients through complex patent, IP, and high-value commercial matters with strategic precision and proven results. He has represented clients at every stage of litigation, from pre-suit evaluation through trial and appeal.

Steven earned his Doctor of Jurisprudence from the Indiana University School of Law in 1989, following a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Purdue University. His engineering background strongly complements his patent practice, enabling him to understand intricate technologies and draft enforceable patent applications. He is admitted to practice before the USPTO and is licensed to practice in multiple jurisdictions, including Illinois, California, Florida, Colorado, Hawaii, the District of Columbia, and several federal courts.

Steven began his career as a design engineer for NASA, where he developed electronic systems for the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. His work in mission control and his Special Achievement Award from NASA reflect the technical depth that now informs his intellectual property practice. This engineering foundation enhances his ability to manage sophisticated patent issues across diverse industries.

Following law school, Steven worked at national law firms focusing on patent drafting and prosecution before transitioning into commercial litigation, ultimately trying more than 50 jury trials to verdict. These experiences established his reputation for meticulous preparation and effective courtroom advocacy in both IP and complex business disputes.

Steven’s in-house roles at Methode Electronics, Inc. and Stratos Lightwave, Inc. further broadened his expertise by allowing him to oversee significant patent portfolios and manage major litigation matters. He later joined McGuireWoods, LLP, where he litigated multimillion-dollar cases, including successful appeals before the Seventh Circuit.

In 2012, Steven M. Evans founded Chicago IP Law to provide clients with flexible, highly skilled representation in patent litigation and IP counseling. His dual experience as a trial attorney and patent prosecutor enables him to craft strong, enforceable patents and defend them effectively in court, offering clients a comprehensive and strategic approach to intellectual property protection.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founding Partner, Chicago IP Law
• Member, Illinois State Bar Association
• Member, State Bar of California
• Member, The Florida Bar
• Member, Colorado Bar Association
• Member, Hawaii State Bar Association
• Member, District of Columbia Bar Association

Licensed State

• Illinois
• California
• Florida
• Colorado
• Hawaii
• District of Colombia

Education

• Indiana University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Purdue University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges