Mr. Yoshiyuki Inaba is a managing partner of TMI Associates. He heads the intellectual property group, utilizing his expertise in patent and trademark prosecution and enforcement. With over 45 years of experience, Mr. Inaba has earned a reputation as a top-level IP practitioner.
Mr. Inaba oversees the daily management of each client’s IP portfolio, ensuring that proper protection is obtained and that the client’s interests are fully covered. He also handles and supervises patent and trademark lawsuits at both the District and Intellectual Property High Court levels, as well as invalidation procedures at the Japan Patent Office (JPO). In negotiations, including those regarding licensing, transfers, and general cooperative arrangements, his attention to detail ensures that the parties involved can experience a reasonable, amicable, and hassle-free transaction.
In addition to his private practice, Mr. Inaba has held roles in various professional organizations, including the Japanese Patent Attorneys Association, where he served as vice president. He also offers a class on Japanese IP law and practice in affiliation with Santa Clara University (CA). In 2023, Mr. Inaba received the “Practitioner of the Year (Japan)” award from MIP IP Stars.
Year Joined Firm: 1990
Education/Alumni: Sophia University (B.S., Mechanical Engineering)
Network Memberships: INTA, AIPPI, APAA, JPAA, LES JAPAN
