IP Year in Review Conference 2026

The IP Year in Review Conference 2026 is an annual event organized by the Boston Bar Association, bringing together leading in-house counsel, legal scholars, and practitioners to discuss significant developments in intellectual property law from the past year. The conference is scheduled for Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the Boston Bar Association's headquarters in Boston, Massachusetts.

Key topics to be covered include trade secrets damages, patent prosecution trends, decisions from the Patent Trial and Appeal Board and the Federal Circuit, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in trademarks and copyright. A notable session titled "AI, Dupe Culture, and Look-Alikes: Recent Developments in Trademark Law" will feature discussions on emerging AI-related trademark issues, the rise of "dupe culture," and notable university trademark disputes.

The conference offers attendees opportunities for networking with peers and industry leaders, as well as access to expert panels and discussions. Notable speakers include Erin McGuine, an associate at Morgan Lewis, who will share practical insights for protecting trademarks in an era of rapid innovation and imitation.

This event is ideal for intellectual property professionals, including attorneys, in-house counsel, and legal scholars, seeking to stay informed about recent developments and trends in IP law. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge and practical strategies to navigate the evolving landscape of intellectual property.