Ann M. McCrackin | Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A.

### Introduction / Overview

In a world driven by rapid technological advancements and ever-increasing digital innovation, the protection of intellectual property (IP) has become more complex and critical than ever before. For inventors, tech companies, and businesses across Minnesota, safeguarding their creations – especially in the realms of software, computer architecture, and business methods – requires highly specialized legal expertise. Furthermore, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into legal practices is transforming how IP is managed and protected. In Minneapolis, Ann M. McCrackin, a distinguished attorney at Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A., stands at the forefront of this evolving landscape, offering deep experience in patent law combined with pioneering insights into AI for legal practice.

Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A. is a prominent intellectual property law firm, renowned for its dedicated focus on patent prosecution and strategic IP counseling. This firm has built a reputation for its deep technical knowledge and its commitment to providing robust protection for clients' innovations. Ann M. McCrackin exemplifies this commitment, bringing over 25 years of experience as a patent attorney, complemented by her significant contributions to AI in legal technology. Her work ensures that clients' intellectual assets are not only protected through traditional means but also managed efficiently using cutting-edge approaches.

This article will delve into the specific services offered by Ann M. McCrackin and the broader capabilities of Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A., highlight their distinctive features, detail their convenient downtown Minneapolis location, and provide essential contact information. Our aim is to offer Minnesotans a clear and comprehensive understanding of how this firm, led by an expert in both IP and AI, can be their trusted partner in safeguarding and advancing their intellectual assets in the digital age.

### Location and Accessibility

Ann M. McCrackin practices at Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A., a leading intellectual property law firm conveniently located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, Minnesota. The firm's address is: 121 S 8th St, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA. This prime location places the office within the bustling core of Minneapolis's central business district, ensuring excellent accessibility for clients throughout the Twin Cities metropolitan area and beyond.

Being situated on South 8th Street in downtown Minneapolis offers superb connectivity. For those traveling by car, the area provides numerous public parking ramps and garages within close walking distance, allowing for convenient vehicle access, though visitors should anticipate typical urban parking fees. The firm's presence in a well-known building on this prominent street contributes to its professional stature and ease of identification.

For Minnesotans relying on public transportation, downtown Minneapolis is exceptionally well-served by Metro Transit. Numerous bus lines traverse the downtown grid, and the office is conveniently located within walking distance of several light rail stations (including the Blue and Green Lines). This robust public transit infrastructure allows for seamless travel from various neighborhoods in Minneapolis, St. Paul, and even extends to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). The ease of access by public transport underscores the firm's commitment to being readily available to a wide range of clients who prefer or rely on public transit.

The central and easily reachable location of Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A. reinforces its position as a premier intellectual property law firm, providing a professional and convenient setting for clients to address their critical IP needs.

### Services Offered

Ann M. McCrackin at Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A. offers specialized intellectual property legal services, with a particular focus on areas at the intersection of technology and law. Her extensive experience ensures comprehensive and strategic protection for a wide range of innovations. Her primary service areas include:

• Patent Preparation and Prosecution: Ann assists clients in drafting, filing, and prosecuting patent applications before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Her particular expertise lies in the fields of computer architecture, software, and business methods. This involves meticulously defining and claiming inventions to secure robust legal protection.

• International Patent Protection: She specializes in helping clients navigate the complexities of securing patent protection globally. This involves understanding and advising on foreign patent filing strategies, international patent treaties, and managing patent portfolios across various jurisdictions.

• Reexamination Practice: Ann also has significant experience in reexamination practice, which involves challenging or defending the validity of existing patents before the USPTO. This can be crucial in managing patent disputes or strengthening existing patent rights.

• Licensing and Counseling: Providing guidance on the licensing of intellectual property, helping clients negotiate agreements to commercialize their patented technologies, software, or business methods while protecting their proprietary interests.

• Opinions: Offering legal opinions related to patent infringement, validity, and freedom to operate. These opinions are vital for businesses to assess risks, avoid potential litigation, and make informed decisions about product development and market entry.

• IP Due Diligence: Conducting thorough investigations of intellectual property assets in the context of corporate transactions such as mergers, acquisitions, or financing rounds. This ensures clients fully understand the value and risks associated with IP portfolios.

• Copyright and Trademark Counseling: While patents are a primary focus, Ann also provides counseling on copyright protection for original works and trademark matters for brand identification, ensuring a holistic approach to intellectual property management.

Beyond traditional IP services, Ann's forward-thinking approach extends to advising on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into legal practices, helping clients leverage AI tools for efficiency and enhanced quality in IP work. Her background as a co-editor and contributing author for "Electronic and Software Patents: Law and Practice" further highlights her deep knowledge in these specialized areas.

### Features / Highlights

Ann M. McCrackin's practice at Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A. offers several unique features and highlights that make her an exceptional choice for intellectual property legal services in Minnesota:

• Deep Expertise in Software and Computer IP: With a focus on computer architecture, software, and business methods, Ann possesses a highly specialized understanding of complex technological innovations. This expertise is crucial for effectively navigating the nuances of patenting in the rapidly evolving digital landscape, providing robust protection for cutting-edge software and electronic inventions.

• Pioneering AI Integration in IP Law: Ann is a recognized expert in the field of AI and its application in intellectual property practice. As the founding president of an AI legal tech company (Black Hills IP, focused on IP docketing and automation) for over a decade, and an adjunct professor teaching patent prosecution and AI, she is at the forefront of integrating AI tools to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness in IP work. This offers clients a forward-thinking approach to managing their IP portfolios.

• Seasoned Patent Attorney: With over 25 years of experience as a patent attorney, Ann has a proven track record of success in patent prosecution. Her extensive practical experience ensures clients receive seasoned and strategic counsel throughout the patenting process, from initial drafting to securing granted patents.

• International Patent Protection Specialization: Ann also specializes in international patent protection and reexamination practice, which is vital for clients operating in a globalized economy. Her ability to navigate foreign filing strategies and complex international IP landscapes provides comprehensive protection beyond U.S. borders.

• Respected Author and Educator: As a co-editor and contributing author for "Electronic and Software Patents: Law and Practice," a respected treatise published by Bloomberg BNA, Ann demonstrates her profound knowledge and thought leadership in the field. She is also a frequent speaker on patent prosecution and legal tech topics, further solidifying her reputation as a leading authority.

• Affiliation with a Top-Tier IP Firm: Practicing at Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A. means clients benefit from the resources and collaborative environment of a large, nationally recognized firm exclusively dedicated to intellectual property prosecution and counseling. This provides a strong foundation of support and collective expertise.

These combined features highlight Ann M. McCrackin's exceptional qualifications, making her an ideal choice for clients seeking expert and forward-thinking intellectual property legal services in Minnesota.

### Promotions or Special Offers

In the highly specialized and demanding field of intellectual property law, particularly at a leading firm like Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A., "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional consumer sense are not typically provided. The value derived from engaging attorneys like Ann M. McCrackin comes from their deep technical and legal expertise, their extensive experience, and their ability to secure robust and strategic protection for invaluable innovations and brands.

Based on publicly available information regarding Ann M. McCrackin and Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A., there are no explicit advertisements for discounts, bundled services, or other promotional deals. Legal services, especially in complex areas like patent prosecution for software and computer architecture, involve highly customized work that reflects the unique nature of each invention and the detailed legal processes required.

However, for prospective clients interested in discussing their intellectual property needs with Ann M. McCrackin or another attorney at the firm, the standard process typically involves an initial consultation. While the terms of such a consultation (e.g., whether it is complimentary or involves a fee) are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, it is always recommended to contact the firm directly to inquire. This initial discussion provides an invaluable opportunity to:

• Present your specific intellectual property assets, challenges, or strategic goals.
• Receive preliminary insights and guidance from an expert in the field.
• Understand how the firm's capabilities and Ann's specialized expertise align with your particular requirements.
• Discuss the firm's fee structure and engagement process for future services.

For innovators and businesses in Minnesota, the primary consideration when selecting an IP firm should be the quality, depth, and strategic foresight of the legal protection offered, as this significantly impacts the long-term value and competitive positioning of their intellectual assets. Engaging with an attorney of Ann M. McCrackin's caliber is an investment in securing your innovation's future.

### Contact Information

For individuals, inventors, startups, and businesses in Minneapolis and throughout Minnesota seeking unparalleled expert legal assistance with complex intellectual property matters, Ann M. McCrackin can be contacted through Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A. using the following details:

• Address: 121 S 8th St, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA

• Phone: (612) 349-9592

• Mobile Phone: +1 612-349-9592 (This number serves as the primary contact line for calls, providing a direct way to connect with the firm's intellectual property team and Ann M. McCrackin's office.)

Prospective clients are encouraged to reach out during standard business hours to schedule a consultation or discuss their specific intellectual property needs. As a prominent firm located in a major business district, Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A. typically operates Monday through Friday, generally from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Confirming their availability when you call will ensure a smooth initial contact and allow you to arrange a meeting with Ann M. McCrackin or another highly qualified attorney on their team.

### Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Minnesotans at the cutting edge of technology and innovation, Ann M. McCrackin at Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A. in Minneapolis offers an exceptionally suitable and advantageous legal partnership for their intellectual property needs. Her unique expertise and the firm's specialized approach make them an ideal fit for the local community, especially given Minnesota's robust tech and medical device sectors.

Firstly, Ann M. McCrackin's deep specialization in software, computer architecture, and business method patents is a significant asset. In a state that is continuously pushing the boundaries of digital innovation, having a patent attorney who not only understands the intricacies of these technologies but can also expertly translate them into strong legal protections is crucial. She helps local inventors and tech companies secure comprehensive patent rights, which are vital for maintaining a competitive edge and attracting investment in the fast-paced tech industry.

Secondly, her pioneering work in integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into IP legal practice sets her apart. For Minnesotan businesses looking for efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and cutting-edge management of their IP portfolios, Ann's expertise in AI-enabled legal tools and processes offers a distinct advantage. She helps clients leverage the latest technological advancements to streamline IP operations, ensuring that their valuable intellectual assets are managed with modern precision and innovation.

Furthermore, with over 25 years of experience as a patent attorney and her role as a respected author and educator in the field, Ann brings a wealth of knowledge and credibility. This extensive experience ensures that local clients receive seasoned, strategic, and highly effective legal counsel, whether they are navigating complex patent prosecution, international filings, or reexamination challenges. Her thought leadership in the industry means clients are advised by someone who is shaping the future of IP law.

Lastly, the firm's central downtown Minneapolis location ensures unparalleled accessibility. Situated in a key business district, it is easily reachable via major roads and extensive public transportation, emphasizing convenience for clients across the metropolitan area. This local presence, combined with Ann M. McCrackin's profound expertise and the firm's global recognition as a leader in IP, makes Schwegman, Lundberg & Woessner P.A. an indispensable resource for Minnesotans seeking to protect and leverage their intellectual property effectively in the evolving digital landscape.