Bruce C. Dearling
AI. Luxembourg
MGL
Email: bcd@hepworthbrowne.com
Bruce has extensive experience in patent prosecution particularly in the fields of software, computer-implemented inventions “CIIs,” extensive aspects of cellular, wireline and optical telecommunications systems, and AI technologies. He has significant lead experience in IP litigation to Supreme Court level, including controlling responsibility as the directing mind for the enforcement of leading-edge cases in cross-border evidence seizures, trade secret theft, and database rights in national and multi-jurisdictional venues.
With consistently being in the vanguard of legal argument, decisions from Bruce’s cases before the EPO’s Board of Appeal have been included in editions of its published case law. His foresight and considered guidance have resulted in the setting of legal standards in the field of AI, with this including responsible for the recent and arguably seminal decision in Emotional Perception’s Application in the U.K. High Court on the patentability of artificial neural networks “ANNs,” the differences of ANNs and limitations of the exclusions to patentability of “programs for computers” in Section 1 of the Act, and the correct approach to the assessment of technical contribution.
As an IP strategist and counsellor, Bruce’s approach is to establish an effective partnership with his clients. This proven approach has aligned IP rights with his clients’ evolving commercial needs thereby maximising or reinforcing market dominance, securing seed and/or longer-term investment and optimising their return on investment.
For multiple terms, Bruce served as an elected member of council of the epi, including roles on the Standard Advisory Committee before EPO, the EPPC and the Disciplinary Committee. Bruce is multi-nationally qualified as “conseil,” and has previously advised government on topics of IPR support, including IPR corporation tax rates.
At the University of Luxembourg, Bruce was an associate professor, course designer and ‘chargé de cours’ for post-graduate MSc studies dealing with the protection of software with IPR. He also lectured to undergraduate students in the engineering and computer science faculties on the fundamentals and importance of IPR in business.
Bruce is also a registered UK trade mark attorney, with significant experience in all aspects of corporate branding.