Joshua Schmid ’19 Wins PA Bar Association Intellectual Property Writing Competition

For the seventh consecutive year, a Villanova Law student has placed in the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Intellectual Property Law Annual Writing Competition. Joshua Schmid ’19, earned first place in this year’s competition with his article, “One Final Word in Favor of Broadest Reasonable Interpretation Standard for Claim Construction in AIA Proceedings.”

The contest, established in 2004, provides an opportunity for law students to “express in writing their insight and knowledge in the areas of patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets or trade dress.” It is open to all second- and third-year law students enrolled in law schools in Pennsylvania. The winner’s original creation is selected by judges based on content, quality and relevancy.

“Villanova Law has offered me many pathways into the world of IP, from practical elective coursework to interactions with distinguished faculty and alumni in the field,” Schmid remarked. He also credited his professors for providing him with essential skills and insights, including legal writing.

“Villanova Law’s legal writing program transformed my communication skills, and I also gained so much from my time on the Villanova Environmental Law Journal. Our members constantly push each other to become more effective written advocates,” said Schmid. “It’s a skillset that will prove useful regardless of the practice areas we enter, and I’ve been grateful for every opportunity to improve.”

Villanova Law students have consistently placed in this competition. Since 2013, there have been four first place winners, six second place finishers and one third place finisher, as well as three honorable mentions.

The curriculum at the Villanova University Charles Widger School of Law includes five semesters of writing instruction—providing students with a solid foundation in legal writing, analysis and research that prepares them to meet the intense demands of the legal industry.

Learn more about Intellectual Property Practice at Villanova Law.