The Intellectual Property Program is delighted to announce the return of Lawrence M. Sung, Senior Adjunct Professor, to Maryland Carey Law. Professor Sung’s return is the continuation of his long relationship with the law school beginning in 2001, when he initially joined the faculty before becoming the Director of the Intellectual Property Law Program. Sung transitioned from a full-time faculty position to teaching as an adjunct from 2014-2019, before leaving to focus on his law firm practice. Now Sung is teaching this Spring semester’s Intellectual Property Law Survey course.
Sung, a registered U.S. patent attorney with a Ph.D. in microbiology, has over 30 years of legal experience. Recognized as a legal scholar in intellectual property, he has authored over 120 legal and scientific publications, including established treatises like "The Patent Law Handbook" and "Medical Device Patents." He brings litigation experience with his appearances before the U.S. District Courts, the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office’s Patent Trial and Appeal Board, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, and the U.S. Supreme Court. His practice has included working with individuals and Fortune 100 companies in focus areas such as biotechnology, medical devices, pharmaceuticals, computer technology, and consumer products. Professor Sung possesses true expertise in copyrights, trademarks, and patents- the foundation of the IP Law Survey Course.
Nykolaus Pinnock ‘27, a student in Sung’s IP Law Survey remarked, “I like that Professor Sung has good historical knowledge having lived through some of the major decisions and formations of the standards and has actually been in the space. The information is heavy, but he provides modern news and cases to make the material more relevant and relatable.”
We are grateful that Professor Sung had a moment to provide us with his perspective on his return to Maryland Carey Law. Below you’ll find our interview with Professor Sung as we welcome him back to Maryland Carey Law.
We’re thrilled to have you back! What brings you back to Maryland Carey Law? What’s special about Maryland Carey Law and the IP program here?
Sung: The IP Program and its growth will always be a special part of my professional development. Nothing more rewarding than rejoining a community that I have enjoyed for so long.
Were you apprehensive about coming back to Maryland Carey Law?
Sung: Only after realizing there is now a Starbucks across Paca Street that seems to call out my name every time I pass by.
How has the IP program changed since you were last at Maryland Carey Law? How has Carey Law changed?
Sung: I am proud to see that IP Program alumni can now be found all over at the cutting intersection of intellectual property law and business. As for the law school, its winning combination has always been its adaptability to a changing world while maintaining its core values.
You recently founded Sung IP Law. Can you talk about that?
Sung: After 30 years as an IP attorney, managing my docket more aggressively with a healthy dose of life outside work is a priority. At my own shop, billable hours are secondary to helping clients and causes with which my passions align closely.
Why did you decide to pursue law after your Ph.D.?
Much like a visit to Ollivanders in the Harry Potter world, this profession chose me. I knew nothing of intellectual property before law school, but was fortunate to be hired as a first year student by a leading IP firm in Washington, DC. It has been a terrific adventure ever since.
What personal or professional achievement are you most proud of?
Sung: That I can look back and honestly say that I would do it all again in a heartbeat. I have learned so much and have had so much fun along the way.
Are there any moments/memories that stick out from your first tenure at Maryland Carey Law?
Sung: Unknown to many, the law school served as a physics lab on more than a few early Sunday mornings, at least from 2001-2014. I can still see the sympathetic faces of the security officers who took pity on two parents by allowing their three young children to race around the corridors and convert enough potential to kinetic energy to power the campus.
What should students expect from a Lawrence Sung IP class?
Sung: Hopefully to be inspired to voice their opinions and share their experiences as we tackle challenging topics in intellectual property law together.
Is there anything we missed/anything you'd like to say to the Maryland Carey Law IP audience?
Sung: Thank you for making me feel at home again.