Overview
Past Experience
Prior to his time with Faegre Drinker, Darnell worked for Fredrikson & Byron, P.A. as an attorney in their intellectual property and patent group, focusing his work on mechanical, electrical, life sciences and software patents. He was responsible for preparing and prosecuting patent applications; assessing patentability, invalidity and freedom to operate; and drafting IP agreements, including assignment, licensing, SaaS, service, and confidentiality and nondisclosure agreements.
Before entering the patent profession, Darnell also worked with Boeing as both an engineer and senior paralegal. As an engineer, he performed thermodynamic and structural analysis on defense and aerospace products. As a paralegal, he used his structural and thermal analyst experience to assist senior counsel in various aspects of government contracts, program management and corporate governance.
Darnell also worked as an intellectual property extern with Emerson and Thompson Coburn LLP.
Faculty Positions
- Mitchell Hamline School of Law — Adjunct Professor, Patent Drafting Competition, 2019
Related Legal Services
Credentials
Bar Admissions
Minnesota
U.S. Patent and Trademark Office
Court Admissions
U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota
Education
Saint Louis University School of Law
J.D. (2017)
University of Missouri
B.S. in Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering, magna cum laude (2013)
Insights & Events
Leadership & Community
Professional Associations
- Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers
- Minnesota Intellectual Property Law Association
- National Bar Association
- The Honorable Jimmie V. Reyna Intellectual Property American Inn of Court
Civic Activities
- University of St. Thomas School of Law – Patent Drafting Competition Coach
- Twin Cities Diversity in Practice – Emerging Leaders Group Co-Chair
- Connections to Independence – Board Treasurer
- Alpha Omega Theta – National President
Honors
- Minnesota Lawyer — “2022 Diversity and Inclusion Awards” Honoree
- Faegre Drinker — Pro Bono Honor Roll, 2020-22
- Saint Louis University School of Law – International Patent Drafting Competition Winner, 2017; CALI Award in Patent Drafting, 2017
No aspect of these recognitions has been approved by the highest court of any state.