Knobbe Martens Olson & Bear LLP

Partner

Intellectual property attorney, professor of law, former Naval Officer and mechanical engineer Maria Stout advises on strategic planning and management of IP assets, particularly patents, including licensing and offensive and defensive tactics designed to safeguard and monetize valuable innovation. Maria’s clients range from small, fast-growth companies to international corporations with billions of dollars of market share and extensive IP portfolios.

A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Maria’s years as a surface warfare officer gave her specialized training and hands-on experience working with teams as both a leader and service provider to get the mission accomplished. Patient, loyal and personally accountable, Maria’s ability to remain calm in stressful situations, unwavering focus, discipline and fearless approach to problem-solving allow her to motivate individuals and groups at all levels and with varied perspectives to realize their full potential and accomplish their goals.

An important focus of Maria’s practice is advising major national and international corporations. A team builder and creative problem solver, Maria manages the extensive IP portfolios of her clients with an eye to providing value. She understands the pressures in-house executives face, and works diligently to conserve their resources and legal spend while delivering the superior counsel, extraordinary work product and immediate service they require.

Maria protects valuable innovation in the maritime, aeronautical, and automotive industries. Maria is fluent in myriad technologies such as molecular diagnostic and microbiology testing platforms, including lab automation, liquid handling, sample processing and optical detection systems, as well as microfluidic chip technologies, including isolating cells for genetic analysis and diagnostic assays. Maria has first-hand experience in lateral flow assays and detection systems, health IT and cloud-based connectivity. She is well-versed in hardware and software for optical detection systems, including spectral imaging and fluorescence detection. An All-American intercollegiate sailor with decades of maritime experience, Maria has a first-hand understanding of all aspects of ship design, navigation systems, and deck equipment used in small boat, crane, flight deck, and well deck operations.

Fluent in Spanish, dynamic and well-connected, Maria has been named among the “Top 50 Influential Veteran Business Leaders” by the San Diego Business Journal. Maria is an adjunct professor at the University of San Diego School of Law where she teaches patent law.