Louis-Pierre is Partner at the firm of Dipchand LLP in Montreal, Canada. He specialises in patents, IP strategy, particularly in the areas of AI, software, hardware, and quantum technologies.
Being able to help an inventor or organisation to achieve their objectives is always a special moment for him. Louis-Pierre says,
“Attaining goals could be through a well drafted application, a creative argument to respond to an office action, or simply being able to map out and execute on an IP strategy that is in sync with the business objectives.”
Resolving challenges is also rewarding. Louis-Pierre recalls a recent case,
“We recently filed an appeal against an Examiner’s rejection in the United States. That was the second time we went to the PTAB for the same client, and for the second time, our position was upheld. The case was then returned to the Examiner, who issued a notice of allowance. Crafting the argument to contest the Examiner’s rejection and seeing that the argument was persuasive was very satisfying.”
He notes with some understatement,
“The customer is now very happy!”
Best practice to share with FICPI members
Emphasis on the workplace dynamic and bringing on the next generation of staff is an important part of Dipchand LLP’s raison d’être. The way that the firm achieves this might be considered unusual in today’s digital nomad economy. Louis-Pierre explains,
“Our philosophy is that everyone should be together in the office. The rationale is that younger associates and staff learn better when everyone is on site. Firm culture is reinforced, and communications are more fluid.”
Dipchand LLP has offices in Toronto and Montreal, and Louis-Pierre reveals,
“Our only exception to on-site working is for team members outside those geographical areas.”
The future for independent IP attorneys
His strategic roles within FICPI and Dipchand LLP have given Louis-Pierre a wide vision. When asked how the practice of an independent IP attorney is likely to change over the next few years, he says,
“It’s hard to choose just one way that our professional life will change. Undeniably, the world of intellectual property is changing, and the pace of change is accelerating.”
Whilst IP attorneys remain trusted professional advisers, new resources are on the rise. Louis-Pierre urges caution coupled with encouragement to harness them to change practice life for the better. He observes,
“We now have access to AI-based tools for drafting patent applications, responding to office actions, and of course analysing vast amounts of prior art in the blink of an eye. While the platforms are not perfect, and still need careful revision, they are becoming more prevalent.”
Smart and careful use of these technologies will benefit clients and practices, he believes,
“I predict that in a short period of time, we will be regularly using these types of solutions. This means that the way we provide services to our customers will evolve and we *should* have more time to invest in our relationships with them.”
Adding value to clients
Indeed, professional bonds are a priority for Louis-Pierre and his fellow partners. He adds,
“Our singular focus on developing close links with our clients at Dipchand LLP means that we have a much better understanding of their environment and can provide solid advice that is relevant to their reality.”
That understanding is coupled with deep industry knowledge. Louis-Pierre highlights,
“While we are highly knowledgeable in our areas of expertise, we can translate the finer details of IP practice and business law into advice that our customers can then act on.”
Value of FICPI membership
Louis-Pierre has been a FICPI member for close to 20 years, joining in July 2007. He’s long been actively involved in committees and working parties for both FICPI-International and FICPI-Canada.
Immediate past Co-Deputy Vice President of the Practice Management Committee, Louis-Pierre is also long-term FICPI Focus 45 webinar host, the 45th episode aired in January 2026. In October 2025, he was elected to the FICPI Bureau, as Deputy Secretary General, and is FICPI-Canada’s current President.
Explaining the allure of FICPI, Louis-Pierre shares,
“It’s all about the connections. Getting to know people in a relaxed atmosphere, and being able to take the time to have meaningful conversations, is what FICPI is all about.”
He concludes,
“Oh, and the chance to visit some wonderful destinations helps, too.”
Final word – outside of work
Outside the office, Louis-Pierre seamlessly combines sport and culinary prowess, although not simultaneously, and films and music are an important part of his life.
Karate is on his list of hobbies although the Black Belt remains elusive. He elucidates,
“I really enjoy practicing karate (and I mean practicing).”
In the winter, Louis-Pierre and his family downhill ski, which he finds a fantastic way to enjoy the Quebec winters, and to see the kids get better at skiing.
He reflects,
“I also really like cooking – for my family, for friends. It’s very therapeutic.”
In his teenage years, he worked in a record store.
“Back when vinyl was king, and CDs were just starting in the 1980s, I DJ’d for high school dances and other events, but that was a loooong time ago, in a galaxy far, far away…”
On May Fourth, be sure to talk to Louis-Pierre about the Star Wars movies, and TV series and his feelings on the evolution of the story and storytelling since 1977!
Education & training
- 1995: LL.B. cum laude
- 1994: LL.B. (common law)
- 1991: B.A.Sc. (Electrical engineering)
Professional background
- September 2024 - date: Dipchand LLP
- 2021 - 24: Bereskin & Parr
- 1995 - 2021: Robic
