Wooshik Shim

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Wooshik Shim

Patent Attorney
Los Angeles, CA

Bio

Wooshik Shim, Ph.D., is a registered patent attorney specializing in patent prosecution across a broad spectrum of engineering and physical science disciplines. Combining high-level technical acumen as a former optical physics researcher with extensive legal experience, Dr. Shim collaborates closely with inventors—ranging from Fortune 500 companies and renowned research universities to independent entrepreneurs—to secure robust protection for complex, cutting-edge technologies.

Practice Areas & Legal Expertise

  • Prior Art Searches & Patentability Analysis
  • Domestic & International Patent Prosecution (PCT Written Opinions)
  • Patent Portfolio Counseling & Strategy
  • Technical Inventor Collaboration & Consultation

Technical Focus & Industry Experience

Dr. Shim handles inventions across virtually all non-biochemistry sectors, with notable experience in:

  • Physics & Optical Engineering: Optics, quantum systems, and micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS).
  • Software & High-Tech: Computer science, enterprise logic software, and aviation safety management platforms.
  • Engineering & Consumer Goods: Mechanical and electrical engineering, medical devices, chemistry, improved automotive designs, and commercial consumer products.

Scientific & Research Background

Prior to entering the legal profession, Dr. Shim had an extensive career as a physicist:

  • University of Texas at Austin: Served as a postdoctoral researcher studying fundamental physical properties of quantum systems using ultracold atoms.

Education

  • Juris Doctor (J.D.) – Chicago-Kent College of Law
  • Ph.D. in Physics – Seoul National University
  • Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Physics – Seoul National University

Bar & Court Admissions

  • Registered to practice before the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO)
  • Illinois State Bar (Admitted 2011)

Languages

  • Korean
  • Japanese
  • English

Personal Life & Interests

Based in Los Angeles, California, Dr. Shim enjoys family life with his wife, two sons, and their pets. Outside of work, his interests include calligraphy, the study of complexity science, fountain pen restoration, and building custom hi-fi audio electronics.

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Patent Playbook

Patent Playbook

Bold (AI)deas — 3rd Edition

Written by Patent Attorney J.D. Houvener, this updated edition provides inventors, entrepreneurs, and startups with practical guidance for protecting ideas, avoiding costly mistakes, and navigating the patent process with confidence.

What You’ll Learn
  • How to determine if your invention is patentable
  • Common mistakes inventors make before filing
  • Strategies for protecting intellectual property
  • How patents can increase business value
  • Steps to move from idea to protected innovation

Ready to Protect Your Idea?

Every Great Innovation Starts with a Bold First Step

Whether you’re exploring a new invention, building a startup, or preparing to file a patent application, our team is here to help you move forward with confidence. Get personalized guidance from experienced patent professionals who understand the challenges inventors face.

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