Nearly 30 Years Of Representing Businesses And Their Owners

California-Based Intellectual Property Attorneys, International Reach

A key to success for companies in today’s marketplace is the ability to procure, protect and exploit intellectual property. Our IP department, which is highly integrated with our litigation and transactions departments, has the depth and experience to provide sophisticated and comprehensive solutions to any IP issues our clients face. We assist in the procurement of IP assets, provide representation in the negotiation and drafting of IP transactions, and litigate infringement actions and unfair competition claims.

Our Intellectual Property Services Include:

  • Intellectual Property Strategies and Monetization
  • Patent and Trademark Monitoring and Portfolio Management
  • Patent Searches, Prosecution, Licensing and Litigation
  • Trademark Searches, Registration, Licensing, and Litigation
  • Copyright Registration, Licensing and Litigation
  • Trade Secret Protection, Policies and Litigation
  • Trade Dress Protection
  • Unfair Competition
  • Right of Publicity Contracts and Disputes
  • Entertainment Litigation
  • Nondisclosure Agreements, Assignments, Purchase/Sale Agreements, Coexistence and Other IP Agreements
  • Privacy Policies, Website Disclaimers and Website Terms of Use
  • Advising Start-Ups
  • Artificial Intelligence, Augmented Reality, and Virtual Reality

California Intellectual Property: Answering Common Questions

It is natural to face uncertainty or have questions about your business intellectual property. To help you move forward confidently, here is how we answer common questions from other clients.

What constitutes trade secret information, and how can I safeguard it from unauthorized use or disclosure?

Trade secrets are a type of confidential business information that gives you a competitive advantage. It can include formulas, inventions, designs, processes, customer lists or other information not generally known to the public. Implementing strong security measures like these can safeguard trade secrets:

  • Identify and classify your trade secrets
  • Limit access to trade secrets on a need-to-know basis
  • Use nondisclosure agreements (NDAs) with employees, contractors and other third parties
  • Implement physical and technological safeguards such as secure storage and passwords to strengthen your protections
  • Have a plan for what to do if you suspect a trade secret has been misappropriated (call a lawyer, etc.)

Considering the sacrifices you made in the interest of running your business, do not let trade secret theft bring it down around you.

What rights do I have if someone is infringing on my intellectual property?

If someone has stolen your intellectual property or used it unlawfully, taking the appropriate legal steps can help to stop them. This could include seeking an injunction – a court order prohibiting the infringement – or suing for damages. The specific legal action you should take depends on the circumstances and how much damage it causes.

How can I avoid infringing on the intellectual property rights of others in my business activities?

Inadvertent infringement can happen and often leads to costly legal consequences. Following these guidelines assures no violations occur:

  • Conduct thorough searches for existing patents and registered trademarks to help you avoid accidental infringement
  • Avoid the use of third-party logos, trademarks and any copyrighted material

It can be tempting sometimes to cut corners and alter another’s existing intellectual property for use in your business. Unfortunately, this is a dangerous habit that can lead to intellectual property litigation if it is discovered.

Contact Coleman & Horowitt, LLP, For IP Protection And Guidance

Coleman & Horowitt, LLP, has a reputation as a sophisticated, modern law firm with tools to match each client’s needs. Learn how to protect all your business’s assets, including long-held and newly developed intellectual property.

Call 559-248-4820 or send an inquiry by email to schedule a consultation with one of our IP lawyers in central California.

Practice Area Attorneys

Sherrie M. Flynn – Partner

Gregory J. Norys – Managing Partner

Aisha O. Otori – Associate

Jennifer T. Poochigian – Partner

Gary S. Shuster – Senior Counsel

Darryl J. Horowitt – Founder

Nicholas F. Phillips – Associate

Daniel L. Rudnick – Senior Counsel

Judith M. Sasaki – Partner

David J. Weiland – Partner