A Discussion with Ashley Cheung: Empowering Change - ADAPT’s Track Illuminates Paths for Non-Attorneys

Interviewee:

Ashley Cheung

Principal & Founder, Virtual Patent Gateway, LLC

Interviewers:

Nicole Cohen and Camelia Gilani

ADAPT Communications Team

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Ashley Cheung, the Principal and Founder of Virtual Patent Gateway (VPG), and a trailblazer in the patent litigation space with 25 years of experience as a paralegal and Case Manager. In 2020, Ashley launched VPG, a virtual paralegal consultancy specializing in PTAB practice and Ex Parte Reexaminations, while also pursuing her passions for writing, mentoring, podcasting, and empowering voices.

Our conversation focused on Ashley’s inspiration for joining ADAPT, the opportunities it has provided her, and how it has amplified her voice as a non-attorney professional. We also delved into her panel at the 2024 Running Legal Like a Business (RLLB 2024) Legal Ops conference.

Can You Tell Us About Yourself?

My name is Ashley Cheung, and I’m the Principal & Founder of Virtual Patent Gateway (VPG). I’ve been a patent litigation paralegal and Case Manager for 25 years. In 2020, I launched VPG, a virtual paralegal consultancy specializing in Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB) practice. Recently, I’ve also focused on Ex Parte Reexaminations, supporting registered patent practitioners with filings and proceedings.

Beyond my substantive work supporting patent practitioners, my interests include writing, mentoring, and exploring creative media. My favorite pastime is traveling with my mom, Cheungma, sharing adventures and creating unforgettable memories, especially since my dad passed in 2017.

What Inspired You to Join ADAPT?

I discovered ADAPT through the PTAB Bar Association. After sharing my story at an All-Hands Quarterly Meeting, I was inspired by ADAPT’s mission to bridge gaps for non-attorney practitioners, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth.

What Opportunities Has ADAPT Offered You?

My journey with ADAPT has been remarkable. I’ve built strong connections, interviewed leaders in the legal space that seek to empower voices and debiasing, and found mentors, mentees, and friends. A highlight was moderating and participating in panels at the 2024 Running Legal Like a Business (RLLB) conference in Las Vegas.

I joined two panels: one on career paths for attorneys and non-attorneys, and another on personal branding for IP professionals with panelists like Sasha Strauss and Bonnie Korte. These experiences were insightful and empowering, underscoring ADAPT’s role in fostering meaningful connections and sparking positive change.

How Has ADAPT Amplified Your Voice as a Non-Attorney?

ADAPT has been instrumental in amplifying my voice as a non-attorney in the legal space across industries. It cultivates an abundance mindset, encouraging us to embrace opportunities and challenge self-doubt.

During my Virtual Water Cooler Chat podcast and the LegalOps conference panels, I shared my story despite battling impostor syndrome. The supportive environment motivated me to speak up and embrace my unique contributions. ADAPT helps shift narratives about non-attorneys, empowering us to lead and drive change within the legal profession.

Insights from my participation of the ADAPT track Panel Discussions

As an immigrant and non-native English speaker, I learned the importance of growth through our lessons. For years, I silenced my voice to fit in, however, I discovered the strength of authenticity. Sharing stories at RLLB 2024 deepens understanding and unites us. These discussions highlighted the vital role of mentorship and community for underrepresented groups, empowering us to inspire change and foster inclusivity in our profession.

Next Steps with ADAPT

I’m eager to collaborate further with ADAPT by contributing to workshops on boundary-setting and self-respect. Mentoring underrepresented communities remains a priority, empowering future leaders to navigate challenges and realize their potential. ADAPT has already made a significant impact, and I’m excited to continue building on its mission for meaningful change.