Summary
Experienced advisor to technology companies on intellectual property licensing, AI data services agreements, SaaS contracts, and technology transactions. Extensive in-house/general counsel experience with publicly traded digital media and telecommunications companies. Expertise in patent pools and licensing programs, cross-border technology alliances, privacy/data security and open source software compliance.
Practice Area Specializations
- Technology Licensing & IP Transactions
- AI & Data Services and License Agreements
- SaaS & Cloud Services Contracts
- Patent Portfolio Commercialization
- Open Source Software Compliance
- Cross-Border Technology Alliances
- M&A Technology Transfers and Due Diligence
- Digital Media & Content Licensing
- Privacy Compliance
Industries Served
- Software & Technology
- Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
- Semiconductor & Electronics
- Life Sciences & Biotechnology
- Digital Media & Entertainment
- Telecommunications
- Cloud Services & SaaS
Transaction Experience
- Negotiated 1000+ complex IP licensing agreements for technology companies
- Developed AI data services agreements for early-stage and established companies
- Advised on technology aspects of hundreds of M&A transactions
- Created international distribution and channel partner agreements in 20+ countries
- Structured and executed patent licensing programs for major electronics manufacturers
Professional Background
Mike brings dual perspectives to his practice, having served as both in-house counsel and outside advisor to hundreds of technology companies. Prior to joining M&H, his experience includes:
Director of Legal Affairs at Via Licensing Corp. (Dolby Labs subsidiary)
- Led development of standards-based patent licensing programs (patent pools)
- Monetized IP for global electronics manufacturers and telecommunications providers
Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary at Critical Path, Inc.
- Managed legal affairs for public company providing mobile messaging and digital media solutions
Partner and Co-Founder of Technology Transactions and Privacy practice groups at Cooley LLP
Partner and head of the Technology Transactions Group at Brobeck Phleger & Harrison LLP
Education & Credentials
J.D., UCLA School of Law
- Managing Editor, UCLA Law Review
- B.A., Economics, magna cum laude from UCLA
Berklee College of Music
- Studies in Music Performance & Composition
California State Bar
- Active Member, member of CLA Intellectual Property Section, Licensing and AI Interest Groups
Professional Insights
- Featured in the December 2023 edition of Lawyer Monthly discussing current trends in IP and technology transactions
- Frequent speaker at PLI and other MCLE programs; industry events such as SXSW
Personal Background
Before his legal career, Mike was a professional musician, orchestrator, and music publisher, including worldwide tours as a trumpet player with renowned orchestras and jazz artists, including Buddy Rich, Clark Terry, Harry James and Mel Tormé. He has performed with Jimmy Buffett, Kix Brooks, the Zak Brown Band, Steve Miller, Kurt Elling, Stephen Stills, Jim Belushi, MC Hammer, Todd Rundgren, Bob Weir and Mickey Hart, and at the San Francisco, San Jose and Monterey Jazz Festivals.