Joseph M. Barich

Joseph M. Barich is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Illinois College of Law and a Lecturer in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering. A licensed Intellectual Property attorney with over 20 years of experience, he is President of Barich IP Law Group (BIPLG), where he develops IP portfolios for clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to start-ups across diverse technical fields.

His educational background includes:

• J.D. from Boston College Law School (1998)
• M.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois (1996)
• B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois (1994)

Professor Barich specializes in Intellectual Property law, with expertise in patent prosecution (over 1,500 applications worldwide), trademark, and copyright. His practice covers wireless communications, computer hardware/software, medical imaging, and consumer products. He is a recognized authority in patent law and teaches courses on Intellectual Property Clinic, Engineering Law, and Startup legal issues, emphasizing practical IP strategy and portfolio development.

His notable professional and teaching awards include:

• 2025: The Best Lawyers in America® for Patent Law
• 2019-2025: Illinois Super Lawyers
• Senior Member of IEEE
• Patent Buddy® Top Patent Prosecutor (top 2%)
• 2022: University of Illinois Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award
• Multiple Department Head Teaching Awards in Industrial and Systems Engineering
• Listed as Excellent Teacher by University of Illinois (2010-Present)

Through the Intellectual Property Clinic, Professor Barich advises law students in preparing patent and trademark applications for real clients, fostering hands-on learning. His legal practice has successfully generated millions in licensing and settlements for clients. He also mentors engineering students via the Technology Entrepreneur Center.

He founded and directs the Intellectual Property Clinic at the College of Law and leads Barich IP Law Group, which serves as a bridge between academic innovation and commercial IP strategy.