Richard Okimaw

Richard Okimaw isn't your run-of-the-mill lawyer; he’s a legal wizard with a knack for patents and trademarks. Rick has a background that’s just as unique as the patents he helps his clients secure. Picture this: a guy with engineering chops and a solid legal background who spends his days diving deep into all sorts of tech—think oil field tools, construction gear, cutting-edge software, social media platforms, gaming devices, sports equipment, even medical tools. If it sounds like Rick’s interests are all over the map, that's because they are. And that's exactly why his clients love him.

With over 15 years of experience under his belt, Rick's seen it all in the intellectual property world. He's helped folks from solo inventors to massive multinational corporations not only establish their tech but also keep it safe from the vultures. You name it, he’s probably worked on it. And it's not just about scoring patents—Rick's got a knack for breaking down complex tech talk into something you and I can actually understand, without the legal jargon.

His background in mechanical engineering? That’s not just a fancy line on his resume. It’s what sets him apart. He knows the grind—what it's like to tinker, to build, to solve those nitty-gritty engineering problems. This gives him an insider perspective that makes his clients feel like they're talking to someone who gets it. No BS, just straight talk about what needs to be done to protect their ideas and keep the wheels turning.

Here’s a rundown of Rick’s creds: he’s a registered Canadian Patent Agent, a Canadian Trademark Agent, and a qualified practitioner in front of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. He’s also plugged into the IP world through memberships with the Intellectual Property Institute of Canada and the American Intellectual Property Law Association, where he’s an active voice in the Diversity in IP Committee. Oh, and let’s not forget his spot on the Okanagan Science and Technology Council.

Rick’s legal career kicked off in British Columbia in 2005, with a pit stop in Alberta in 2011. He got his law degree from the University of Toronto back in 2004, but he’s been repping the engineer life since 1999 when he snagged a B.A.Sc. from the University of British Columbia.

So, if you’re looking for someone who speaks both “engineer” and “lawyer,” Rick’s your guy. He's the person you want in your corner when it comes to navigating the wild world of patents and trademarks.