Gowlings intellectual property law partner Michael Crichton has been named among the winners of the 2015 Ottawa Business Journal Ottawa Chamber of Commerce Forty Under 40 awards, which honour accomplished young leaders who demonstrate a commitment to business success and community development.

Crichton and his fellow award recipients were celebrated at a gala event at the Hilton Lac-Leamy on June 18.

"Michael is an innovative, strategic thinker who has proven himself indispensable to Gowlings and the Ottawa business community," said Scott Jolliffe, Gowlings chair and CEO. "He's a top-notch IP litigator who delivers outstanding service, value and results to his clients - while also leading several important volunteer initiatives in Ottawa."

Highly regarded for his patent litigation expertise, particularly in the technology sector, Crichton applies his strong background in engineering to gain an in-depth knowledge of his clients' businesses and proactively address their legal needs. For a number of key clients, he has developed innovative tools and processes that have enabled his clients to better understand their competitive landscape and improve their patent procurement strategies.

Crichton has also been critical to the launch and implementation of Gowlings Practical, the firm's new approach to legal project management that offers clients greater cost-certainty, efficiency and value. He has overseen the integration of the firm's patent litigation practice into the industry-leading platform, which keeps matters on track, on time and on budget with the help of collaborative software designed specifically for the legal environment.

A distinguished writer and editor, Crichton also serves as editor-in-chief of Gowlings' IP Report newsletter. Under his leadership, the publication now keeps thousands of the firm's clients and contacts informed of the latest intellectual property news in Canada and around the world. In many cases, it is the first law firm publication to share breaking stories on IP court decisions, legislative updates and other key topics.

Recognizing the importance of giving back to the legal community, Crichton has served as an adjunct professor at the University of Ottawa since 2009. In this volunteer position, he lectures on IP litigation and patent law issues, and mentors students interested in pursuing careers in the field of IP law. He also chairs the Ottawa chapter of the Licensing Executives Society, organizing professional development and networking events for the city's IP practitioners.

In addition, Crichton devotes a significant amount of time to charitable and volunteer causes in the Ottawa region. He acts as Gowlings' team leader for the annual motionball campaign for Special Olympics Canada, raising funds and awareness through integrated sport and social events across the country.

Crichton is also a long-time board member of the National Capital Division Freestyle Ski Association, playing a significant role in the overall management and direction of this highly active skiing organization.

"Gowlings congratulates Michael and all of this year's Forty Under 40 recipients on their tremendous achievements," added Jolliffe.

A full list of this year's Forty Under 40 winners is featured in the June 8 issue of the Ottawa Business Journal.

Michael Crichton wins Ottawa 40 Under 40 award
From left: Martha Savoy, Christopher Van Barr,
Michael Crichton, Will Boyer, Kiernan Murphy