Julie Langdon, a member of ChiWIP’s Board of Directors, is a patent attorney at Dunlap Codding. Julie’s practice spans all areas of intellectual property litigation, with a focus on patent litigation. Julie’s practice also includes patent prosecution and IP counseling on trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets and patents. Julie enjoys working in all facets of intellectual property law and serving her clients in a broad range of IP matters.
Born and raised in New York, Julie received her undergraduate degree in cellular biology and biotechnology from the State University of New York. Julie then went on to earn a Master of Science in forensic science with a concentration in DNA technology from Florida International University. While studying for the LSAT and applying to law school, Julie taught as a high school science teacher in the South Bronx in New York City. Julie made the move to the Windy City, where she now lives with her husband and six year-old daughter, to study law part-time at DePaul University College of Law. During her time at DePaul, Julie was interested in patent litigation and worked at various law firms in Chicago as a law clerk and patent agent.
Outside of her legal practice, Julie is also involved with various Chicago IP organizations such as Intellectual Property Law Association of Chicago (“IPLAC”) and The Richard Linn American Inn of Court. Julie joined ChiWIP shortly after the organization was founded. She has served on various ChiWIP committees and currently serves as a member of ChiWIP’s Board of Directors. When asked what she enjoys most about being involved with ChiWIP, Julie spoke about how, particularly as a patent attorney in a male-dominated field, it is nice to meet other female attorneys and learn about their experiences working in IP. Julie has also been a mentor and leader for younger attorneys throughout her career. Julie is always willing to provide advice and guidance to associates—her “door is always open.” Last but not least, Julie is a member of the Executive Board for the Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club, a philanthropic and social woman’s organization that provides grants to non-profit organizations.
When asked about some of her greatest accomplishments in her career and life, Julie readily says, “I’m doing exactly what I want to do.” She has worked hard to get where she is today and is happy with her career. Julie strongly believes in setting career and life goals and being patient with yourself in working to achieve those goals: “I think you need to have a plan for yourself, even if it takes you ten or twenty years. Make goals for yourself but know those goals may change. Know your limitations and don’t get discouraged if it takes you longer than originally planned to reach your goals. Give yourself the ability to do what you want to do and take the time to rethink your goals based on your life situations.”
Meet some of our other ChiWIP members here!
Do you have someone you would like to nominate for a member spotlight? To nominate or to share your own success story, please fill out the form here.