Intellectual Property Law

The George Washington University Law School has been a leader in intellectual property education and scholarship for more than a hundred years. When GW Law established a Master's of Patent Law program in 1895, its alumni had already written the patents for Bell's telephone, Mergenthaler's linotype machine, and Eastman's roll film camera, among hundreds of other inventions, and dozens more alumni had worked in the Patent Office. Over the intervening century, GW Law has bolstered its expertise in patent law with complementary strengths in copyright, trademark, communications, computer and internet regulation, electronic commerce, and genetics and medicine.

 

Two female student working on their laptops on a table in the University Yard

The Center for Law and Technology

The Center for Law and Technology (GWCLT) provides education, events, scholarship, and dialogue about intellectual property, privacy, data security, and technology law. GWCLT seamlessly merges the expertise of two distinguished programs. By synergizing the insights of law with the cutting-edge advancements in technology, the center creates a unique and comprehensive learning environment. Students benefit from an unparalleled interdisciplinary approach, positioning them at the forefront of legal innovation and technological evolution.

Learn More About GWCLT

News & Events

Faculty in the News

"Companies, Civil Society, Academics Announce Voluntary Principles to Combat Image-Based Sexual Abuse"

The Center for Democracy and Technology quoted Mary Anne Franks on the gravity of nonconsensual disclosure of sexually explicit images.

"US States Struggle to Define “Deepfakes” and Related Terms as Technically Complex Legislation Proliferates"

Tech Policy quoted Mary Anne Franks on the struggles surrounding terminology when it comes to defining deepfakes and other harmful content.

"White House announces Big Tech commitments to reduce image-based sexual abuse"

NBC News interviewed Mary Anne Franks on the delay in enforcing stricter corporate responsibility to prevent product and service abuses before they occur.

"Climate Lawsuits Are Exploding. Are Homicide Charges Next?"

The New York Times quoted from a paper co-authored by Donald Braman on how fossil fuel companies could be charged with types of homicide.

"TikTok back in court as government does the 'national security' dance"

The Washington Post quoted from a book written by Jonathan Turley.