Episode 253 | Jake Ward, Founding Member of Ward Law Office | Legal Insights on Patents, Trademarks, and Responsible Use of AI

In this episode, Jake Ward joins Duane Mancini to break down how startups should think about intellectual property from day one and why smart IP decisions directly impact fundability. Jake shares how Ward Law grew from a three-person boutique to a 35-person, multi-state virtual firm, and why their Midwest roots help deliver high-quality IP services at accessible rates for entrepreneurs. The conversation dives into where to start with patents, then shifts to trademarks and brand strategy and why selecting the right mark early, staying consistent, and timing registration can prevent costly rebrands later. They also tackle AI in legal work, exploring confidentiality concerns, “don’t trust the robot” pitfalls, and how to use AI as a tool without letting it undermine strategy or enforceability. Jake Ward LinkedIn Ward Law Website Duane Mancini LinkedIn Project Medtech Website Project Medtech LinkedIn Thank you to our sponsors: Ward Law and JumpStart Inc.