Alumni: Joe Meckes

Joe Meckes

JD 97

Partner, Squire Sanders

Serving Clients Well as an IP Litigator

Why did you choose to attend GGU?

I chose GGU because I wanted to live in San Francisco, and the Law School offered me a merit scholarship. I stayed at GGU because I made so many great friends during my first year and because I sensed that the professors were really interested in teaching the practicalities of legal problem solving. The truth was that I did not know much about law schools when I started, but I always felt like GGU was a good place to be and a good fit.

What advice can you give current students to help them succeed after they've completed their GGU education?

Always keep a positive attitude and focus on the things you like about the practice of law -- or whatever it is youre doing. People who like what theyre doing become better at it and co-workers like having them as part of a team. While its not all fun and games, be thankful that you have a profession that is both challenging and rewarding.

Why do you like the area of IP law?

In the immortal words of Hannibal Smith, I love it when a plan comes together. As an IP litigator, I get to learn about new technology, find out the reasons for the dispute and then come up with a plan for how best to achieve my clients objectives. Sometimes that is through bare-knuckled litigation or something more subtle. Im most satisfied when the plan comes to fruition and Im able to hand my client a win (however it is defined) by using my experience, talent and training.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Raising three happy, healthy, smart, multifaceted and goofy kids.

Why would you hire a student that studied IP law at GGU?

GGU students don't expect anything to be handed to them on a platter. My experience is that theyre scrappy, practical and willing to work hard to get the job done.

Why do you volunteer as a member of Golden Gate University's Intellectual Property Law Advisory Board?

I enjoy staying connected to the university and having an opportunity to see first hand all of the exciting programs offered by the IP center. Ive also had several students contact me who are interested in IP. It is a lot of fun to tell them about the practice and how to succeed. Also, San Francisco is a small town. It is great to meet and become friends with people who will be your peers for years come.