Roland F. Rivera-Santiago, J.D., Ph.D. brings a background that combines deep technical knowledge with legal experience to Dilworth IP. He combines a Ph.D. and postdoctoral studies in the life sciences with years of experience working at large and small law firms as well as an independent attorney to provide sound, practical advice on intellectual property matters.
His practice focuses on securing and enforcing patents, managing IP portfolios, and providing intellectual property counseling and opinions. In addition to his work on patents, Roland has also advised clients on copyright, trademark, and trade secret matters. He has advised clients in a variety of industries, including agriscience, biotechnology, chemistry and materials science, furniture and consumer products, medical devices, pharmaceutical products, and commercial publishing. Roland has advised startup companies from conception through launch and established success. He has also generated value for established clients, including multinational pharmaceutical and chemical companies.
In addition to his work as an intellectual property attorney, Roland is also a passionate defender of the less fortunate. He has a longstanding pro bono practice that has delivered positive outcomes for clients, and awards for his firms. He brings that same attention to detail and determination to secure positive outcomes into his intellectual property work.
Outside of his law practice, Roland is also a devoted husband, father, and New York sports fan. A former collegiate wrestler, he enjoys exercising, spending time with his family, and cheering on the Giants, Knicks, Rangers, and Yankees.
Accomplishments
- Contributed to work that led to a previous firm receiving a 2025 President’s Pro Bono Service Award from the New York State Bar Association.
Technology Areas
- Biotechnology
- Chemistry & Materials Science
- Furniture & Consumer Products
- Medical Devices
Selected Patents, Patent Applications & Publications
- Co-author: “Appeal of the Second Circuit’s ML Genius Holdings LLC v. Google LLC Decision May Resolve a Circuit Split on Copyright Act Preemption Tests,” NYSBA Bright Ideas, Vol. 31, No. 2 (2022), pp. 30-34