Clients shouldn't be surprised to find Kevin Heinl at their plants observing manufacturing processes or learning the intricacies of mechanical devices. A patent lawyer with a focus on the mechanical arts, Kevin believes the best way to represent a client in the intellectual property field is to develop an in-depth understanding of how an invention works and how it impacts the business to which it pertains. To that end Kevin tries, whenever possible, to go out in the field and visit clients. He believes these trips are critical to his detailed understanding of an invention, the problem the invention has solved, and the client's needs. Kevin also encourages clients to participate in the patent prosecution process. He believes that such participation helps to assure enforceability of the patents eventually obtained. Kevin also is a strong proponent of the use of plain English, especially in patent applications. A clear, understandable description of an invention streamlines the examination process and also makes the issued patent more easily understood by a judge or jury. A one-time supervisor in the Fisher Body Sheet Metal Fabrication Plant in Detroit, Kevin's previous work experience allows him to better understand manufacturing operations. This background is especially helpful to his representation of clients in the automotive industry where he has prosecuted patents involving manufacturing processes, vehicle interiors, transmissions and convertible tops. Kevin's experience and work ethic also bring added value to his litigation clients. In the event of any dispute, he adheres to the Brooks Kushman philosophy of providing the most cost-effective means of resolving the dispute. As he does in his patent practice, Kevin strives to take whatever reasonable measures are necessary to thoroughly understand a client and the impact of an infringement or invalidity claim on its business. He advises clients to fully consider all possible dispute resolution options available, so they do not rush into litigation. Kevin has represented a variety of clients in both asserting patent infringement claims and defending against such claims made by others, at both the trial court and appellate court level – and has won several appeals relating to patent infringement and validity.