David L. McCombs

David McCombs is primary counsel for many leading corporations in inter partes review (IPR) and is regularly identified as one of the most active attorneys appearing before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB). His clients benefit from his 39 years of practice, which include appellate argument, patent litigation, and portfolio development.

Nationally ranked, David has been commended by clients stating “David is awesome, one of our go-to counsels. I'm extremely impressed with his work. He is absolutely first-rate.” (Chambers USA, 2023). He has “a deep understanding of our business and approach to resolving complex IP issues” (Chambers USA, 2022). David is further described as “one of the best, not just of patent practitioners but practitioners generally” and “extremely organized, responsive, thoughtful and calm.” (Chambers Global, 2020). He is known for his “strong Federal Circuit patent litigation practice and prominent PTAB expertise” (Chambers Global, 2019).

Recognized by IAM Patent 1000 2023, “David McCombs is an exceptionally versatile practitioner who engages in complex litigation, licensing and portfolio development work. He is a trusted partner to social media giant [ ] for whom he regularly handles IP disputes.” David’s clients appreciate that he is an “ultra-organized, extremely responsive and sophisticated counselor who is a true pleasure to partner with” and a “zealous but very professional advocate" (IAM Patent 1000, 2020, Law Business Research). David has also been cited as “a leading practitioner when it comes to the thoughtful and strategic analysis of patents in the marketplace and critical opinion work” (IAM Patent 1000, 2019, Law Business Research).

David advises global technology companies on a wide range of IP matters. David’s work for these clients is enhanced by his experience as in-house patent counsel prior to joining the firm in 1989. He worked for a diversified technology company with a long history of developing breakthrough chemical/material science, diagnostic, robotics, and motion management technologies.

David is an active educator, writer, and speaker on topics related to patent law and intellectual property litigation. He is an adjunct professor at SMU’s Dedman School of Law. He also serves on the conference planning committees and faculty for the Annual Silicon Valley Advanced Patent Law Institute (2001-present), and the Advanced Patent Law Institute at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (2006-present).