Protecting Your Intellectual Property
It takes an investment of time and resources to bring an idea to the marketplace. Beyond the creative spark, it takes significant commitment and hard work to build what you envision. Trademarks, copyrights, and patents: Each play a role in protecting and advancing business growth.
A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol, and/or design that identifies and distinguishes the source of the goods of one party from those of others. A service mark is a word, phrase, symbol, and/or design that identifies and distinguishes the source of a service rather than goods. The term “trademark” is often used to refer to both trademarks and service marks.
Must all marks be registered? No, but federal registration has several advantages, including a notice to the public of the registrant's claim of ownership of the mark, a legal presumption of ownership nationwide, and the exclusive right to use the mark on or in connection with the goods or services set forth in the registration.
A patent is a limited duration property right relating to an invention, granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office in exchange for public disclosure of the invention.
A copyright protects works of authorship, such as writings, music, and works of art that have been tangibly expressed. (United States Patent and Trademark Office).
Legal services in these areas address issues that arise whether in registration, daily transactions, USPTO proceedings, or litigation.
In addition to these protections, if you are engaged in business or advertising online, you will want to consider issues that arise when drafting privacy policies, terms of use, or publishing statements and representations online. Inescapable in today's digital economy, issues arising in this area are sometimes called "internet law".
At KLP these areas of law are at the center of daily practice and counsel to clients. Initial consultations are always without charge and questions are welcome.
Consumer Protection Litigation
Ensuring an honest and fair marketplace is vital for the success of businesses and the preservation of consumer rights in choosing goods and services. Businesses benefit from counsel regarding the representations they make online, in person, or in contractual agreements. Consumers often need assistance gaining a remedy when they are mislead or deceived by a seller's conduct. If you are a business or a consumer and have questions about activities or conduct that may be considered misleading or deceptive, KLP can assist.
First Amendment Issues
A commitment to issues involving online speech, as well as, issues involving businesses and free exercise of religion will remain a part of KLP's commitment to upholding constitutional protections and promoting justice. If you have questions regarding restrictions on these important rights, we may be able to assist.
Legislation
Keeping current on legislation involving each of our practice areas and the ability to advise clients accordingly is crucial. Research and analysis is available to our clients to assist them in strategic planning or in responding to developing issues.