All businesses possess intellectual capital assets, or “intellectual property” (IP), although many do not adequately protect their IP assets from unwanted encroachment or infringement. In addition to obvious IP assets such as music recordings and inventions, IP assets also include product names or logos, web designs and training materials, confidential client lists or business methods.
The attorneys in Cowles & Thompson’s Intellectual Property practice can help clients identify their IP assets and secure adequate legal protection of those assets, both in the US and abroad. Additionally, the Firm’s attorneys can assist clients in exploiting those IP assets via assignments and license agreements.
Examples of IP matters include:
Trademarks & Service Marks
Trademark searches and screening
State and federal registration
Enforcement of trademark rights (e.g., cease and desist letters, litigation, etc.)
Securing and enforcing rights to trade dress
Licensing and assignment of trademarks
Copyright
Federal copyright registration
Enforcement of copyrights (e.g., cease and desist letters, litigation, etc.)
Developing Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) policies
Registering copyrights in computer software
Licensing and assignment of copyrights
Trade Secrets
Develop guidelines/policies for protecting trade secrets
Non-disclosure and confidentiality agreements
Litigation to enforce trade secret laws
Patent Registration/Enforcement
Other IP Matters
Intellectual property assessment and audit
International intellectual property protection
Recordation of IP with Customs to prevent infringing imports
Avoiding potential anti-trust and franchise issues associated with IP licensing