Jonas Järvholm, a Partner at U.S. law firm Ballard Spahr, brings a unique journey from Partille, Sweden to patent law in Atlanta, Georgia. With a background in chemistry, Jonas now helps companies navigate the complexities of U.S. patent law. Ahead of his talk at Patent Day 2025, he shares insights into legal trends, practical advice for Swedish businesses entering the U.S. market – and even a story about playing tennis with a Swedish legend.
Jonas, you work as a Partner at Ballard Spahr. Can you tell us a bit about your background and your role at Ballard Spahr in the U.S.?
I was born and raised in Partille, just outside of Göteborg. I played a lot of tennis growing up, and in 1998 I had the opportunity to play tennis for Shorter College located in Georgia, USA. The plan was to move back to Sweden after college, but life took different path. After Shorter College, I pursued a Ph.D. in chemistry at Georgia Institute of Technology, located in Atlanta, Georgia, which is where I live today. I quickly figured out that I didn’t want to work in academia or in a lab. Not really sure what to do with my degree I was lucky enough to get a job in patent law. Loving the job, it was an easy decision to go back to school part-time to get my law degree, which is required in the U.S. to be a patent attorney.
I have been working in patent law since 2008, and have been with Ballard Spahr since 2012. In my day-to-day I develop and manage patent portfolios, write opinions, assist wtih enforcement analysis, etc.
What will you be speaking about at Patent Day 2025?
My presentation will be a “smörgåsbord” of topics. The topics will range from how the new administration impacts patents to practical tips and tricks in everyday patent practice.
What advice would you give to a Swedish company that needs a U.S. patent in order to enter the American market?
There are some significant differences between European and U.S. patent law. Understandably, U.S. patent examination can at times be frustrating to European/Swedish companies. What worked in Europe does not always work in the U.S. Clearly communicate what scope of protection is important for your business. Be open to new ideas how to approach issues during examination.
Have you noticed any changes in the patent landscape since the new administration took office in the U.S.?
The new administration is more patent friendly than the previous administration. My prediction is that we will see more efforts to reduce the backlog of cases at the USPTO and to make examination process more efficient.
What do you hope the audience will take away from your presentation?
I hope to provide information that is relevant and practical to everyday practice. It would be a complete success if someone referred back to the presention when they have an issue come up in the U.S.
Finally, we heard a rumor that you have played tennis with Mats Wilander – is that true?
Correct! One of my best memories ever. Mats was obviously an idol of mine growing up. Mats and Mikael Pernfors were a part of a charity event in Atlanta. They needed a 4th player for the exhibition match. The organizer knew I was Swedish and invited me. Mats and I played doubles against Mikael and his partner from college. So fun!
