Hubert J. Barnhardt III

Hugh Barnhardt serves clients involved in intellectual property and technology law, helping them navigate complex patent and technology licensing, IP strategy, and portfolio development. With over 30 years of experience, he distinguishes himself through a deep understanding of patent pools and standards-based technologies in video and wireless communications, delivering practical clarity and strategic value to companies engaged in product development and technology transactions.

Hugh brings extensive in-house and law firm experience to his practice, focusing on patent and technology licensing, intellectual property strategy, and patent portfolio management. His career includes a decade as Assistant General Patent Counsel and Director of Intellectual Property at Scientific-Atlanta, where he managed patent prosecution, licensing, disputes, and portfolio development. Following Scientific-Atlanta’s acquisition by Cisco Systems, he concentrated on intellectual property and technology transactions supporting multiple Cisco business units.

Prior to his in-house roles, Hugh worked at a mid-size intellectual property firm in Atlanta, preparing and prosecuting patent applications across various technologies. His approach emphasizes aligning IP strategies with business objectives, mitigating risks, and generating revenue through effective licensing programs.

Outside of work, Hugh volunteers with students with special needs at Buckhead Church.

Hugh's Practice

Representative Matters

• Managed multimillion-dollar outbound patent licensing programs generating significant royalty revenues from patent pools.
• Provided intellectual property support for product development companies, focusing on inbound patent and technology licensing.
• Addressed complex IP issues including joint development ownership, indemnification, infringement analysis, and license compliance.
• Directed patent prosecution, nondisclosure agreements, and dispute resolution at Scientific-Atlanta.
• Supported technology transactions related to video and wireless communications standards at Cisco Systems.