Susan Maxwell v. J. Baker Meijer Inc., Pamida, Angel-Ettes of California, Dollar General, Family Dollar, et al.

Outcome: Willful patent infringement, fees double damages

Description: Rerpesented plaintiff inventor of a patented shoe connection system against several discount chain stores and their vendors. Tried case vs. Angel-etts of California to jury verdict of infringement, willful infringement, and a royalty of 21 cents per pair of shoes. All jury findings upheld in post-verdict motions and on appeal at the Federal Circuit. Cases against several other discount stores and vendors settled over the course of several years. Patented system used on shoes retailing for an estimate $2 billion+.