Samuel F. Ernst

Samuel F. Ernst is the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Professor of Law at Golden Gate University School of Law. He specializes in intellectual property law, contract law, and legal history, with a focus on innovation policy and consumer protection. Ernst teaches courses including Contracts I, Intellectual Property Law Survey, Patent Law of the US, and Copyright Law. Prior to academia, he practiced intellectual property and appellate litigation at Covington & Burling, and served as a law clerk to Judge Timothy Dyk on the Federal Circuit. His research explores patent exhaustion, trademark law, and constitutional implications in IP disputes. He has received accolades such as the Federal Circuit Bar Association’s award for veterans advocacy and the Berkeley Food and Housing Project’s Certificate of Excellence. Ernst earned his JD from Georgetown University Law Center, an MA from UCLA, and a BA from UC Santa Cruz.

• Education: JD (Magna Cum Laude), Georgetown University Law Center; MA, UCLA; BA, UC Santa Cruz
• Professional Experience: Partner at Covington & Burling; Instructor at UC Berkeley Law; Law Clerk to Hon. Timothy Dyk

Ernst’s scholarship bridges historical and modern IP challenges, emphasizing judicial precedent revival and reform. His work often critiques rigid interpretations of patent law, advocating for broader consumer and public interests. Notable publications include analyses of trademark political commentary, patent exhaustion doctrines, and the Federal Circuit’s jurisprudential shifts.

• Awards: Justice Carter Faculty Scholarship (2018), Distinguished Service Award (Chapman), Federal Circuit Bar Recognition (2010-2011)
• Pro Bono Focus: Veterans’ rights, civil liberties, immigration, and homeless advocacy