October 17, 2011 (Mountain View, CA) – Fenwick & West LLP, a leading technology and life sciences law firm, is pleased to announce that Jake Handy, a highly-regarded life sciences technology transactions attorney, has joined the firm as a partner. Mr. Handy will divide his time as a partner among the firm's Silicon Valley, San Francisco and Seattle offices.
Mr. Handy's practice focuses on technology transactions within the life sciences industry. His experience structuring, negotiating and drafting agreements for emerging and established companies covers a wide range of technologies including antibody, protein expression/modulation, gene therapy, genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics. Mr. Handy also advises technology companies on their intellectual property acquisition and licensing strategies.
Fenwick Chairman Gordon Davidson stated, "Jake's deep industry knowledge, legal expertise and experience advising successful enterprises within the life sciences community will bolster Fenwick's leadership position among law firms specializing in this complex field. The firm is thrilled to add such a talented transactional attorney with these credentials."
Ralph Pais, Chair of the firm's Technology Transactions Group, said, "Jake's legal practice is backed by technical expertise, making him an asset to companies' strategic business goals and operations. His personality and acumen have earned him a stellar reputation among entrepreneurs and scientists alike."
Mr. Handy received his B.S. degree in Molecular Biology from the University of California, San Diego, and an M.S. degree in Biology from the University of California, San Diego. Mr. Handy received his J.D. degree, magna cum laude, from California Western School of Law. Prior to joining Fenwick, Mr. Handy was a partner in the San Diego office of DLA Piper. Mr. Handy is a member of the State Bar of California and is registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Fenwick & West's Life Sciences Industry Group consists of more than 40 attorneys and scientists who provide a broad mix of core legal services to private companies, public companies, investors and research institutions. Many of our Life Sciences Group attorneys have scientific and research experience prior to their legal careers, and a number have advanced technical degrees in disciplines such as molecular biology, organic chemistry, electrical engineering, and immunology. The firm was ranked as a "Top Technology & Life Sciences Law Firm" by InterContinental Finance Magazine in its 2011 Highly Commended - Top Tier Firm listing.