They’ve Got Next: The 40 Under 40 - Vishal Gupta of Steptoe & Johnson

Please describe two of your most substantial, recent wins in practice.
The Amgen v. Sanofi case, related to blockbuster therapies Praluent and Repatha, is an influential biotech case pertaining to the scope antibody patents. After many years of litigation including two jury trials, two injunction trials and Federal Circuit practice, Sanofi and Regeneron prevailed (represented by myself, other members of the Steptoe team and co-counsel.)

I recently represented Apotex in heavily litigated cases related to blockbuster anti-cancer therapies Revlimid® (Celgene Corp. v. Apotex Inc.) and Inlyta® (Pfizer v. Apotex Inc.). The Steptoe team and I took a very vigorous approach to our litigation and strategy, which helped drive these cases toward their eventual settlement resolution.

The Allergan v. Sandoz litigation is a widely followed saga of cases involving the popular drug for eyelash growth, Latisse®. I am part of a Steptoe team retained by Sandoz to defend it in patent infringement suits brought by Allergan and Duke University relating to patents covering eyelash growth. Sandoz has previously prevailed against Allergan and/or Duke three prior times related to Latisse®. A trial date for the forth case is expected this year.

What is the most important lesson you learned as a first-year attorney and how does it inform your practice today?
I learned early on that an important part of being a great lawyer is understanding your client’s business and business goals. I listen intently to business objectives and legally advocate/counsel towards successfully achieving those objectives.

How do you define success in your practice?
Whether it is in-court battle or negotiating settlements, I always have a desire to achieve the best possible result for my clients. I define success as getting such results so that clients’ businesses continue to prosper.

What are you most proud of as a lawyer?
I am most proud of achieving partnership early at the age of 31. It was a recognition of many years of hard work, my aptitude, and high level of client service.

Who is your greatest mentor in the law and what have they taught you?
John Molenda, head of Steptoe’s New York IP practice, has always been a strong advocate for my career advancement. Working with him has taught me the best ways to train associates, provide opportunities for associate career advancement and assign to individuals’ strengths. The foregoing considerations help optimize and fortify well-oiled teams for big-ticket litigations.

Just for fun, tell us your two favorite songs on your summer music playlist.
“Black or White” (Michael Jackson) – In a year where diversity has been at the forefront, this is a great song embodying the message that everyone is the same.

“The Business” (Tiesto) – With the refrain of “let’s get down to business” and a catchy EDM beat, this is my motivational song for a long stretch of work.