Christopher R. Clayton
Associate / St. Louis Metro Office
Chris is a registered patent attorney and dedicated patent litigator who brings a distinctive combination of entrepreneurial experience and legal acumen to his practice. Known for his zealous advocacy and pragmatic approach, Chris is committed to delivering strategic, high-impact solutions to his clients. His practice is built on thorough preparation, efficiency, and an unwavering focus on achieving favorable outcomes. He has successfully litigated over 100 patent cases in every major venue in the United States.
For scientists and entrepreneurs, Chris leverages his technical background in computer science to navigate complex challenges, both in the courtroom and in prelitigation strategy. Whether resolving disputes, managing risk, or asserting clients’ intellectual property rights, his hands-on approach ensures that every case is handled with precision.
Practice Areas
Industries
- In U.S. district courts, the International Trade Commission (ITC), and at the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB), Chris has represented clients in patent litigation matters involving semiconductor chips, standard essential wireless communication systems, telecommunication networks, mobile technology products, video streaming applications, database management and networking applications, and industrial manufactured products.
- Participated in ex parte reexamination proceedings at the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
- Direct: 314.446.7668
- cclayton@harnessip.com
Chris, a former NCAA Division I student-athlete, served as co-captain of the Harvard Men’s Varsity Tennis Team. Outside of the office, Chris and his wife are deeply involved in their children’s school, Villa Duchesne. He volunteers as a soccer coach for the school’s CYC Soccer Teams and mentors the upper school’s mock trial team. Additionally, Chris contributes to Villa’s Strategic Planning Committee. At the Racquet Club Ladue, he serves on the Executive Board and is an active member of the Athletic Committee.
MEMBERSHIPS
- Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis (BAMSL)
CIVIC & CHARITABLE
- Racquet Club Ladue, Executive Board, 2024 – Present
Education
J.D., Washington University in St. Louis School of Law, 2016
B.S., Computer Science, Western Governors University, 2021
A.B., Sociology, Harvard University, 2009
Practice Areas
- IP Litigation
Industries
- Consumer Electronics
- Electrical, Computer & Internet
- Software & Information Technology
- Telecommunications & Wireless Technology
Bar & Court Admissions
- Missouri
- Illinois
- U.S. District of Colorado
- U.S. Eastern District of Michigan
- U.S. Eastern District of Texas
- U.S. Western District of Texas
- Federal Circuit Court of Appeals
- U.S Patent and Trademark Office