Bringing It All Together -- Aquiring, Protecting And Enforcing Intellectual Property Rights
September 25, 2008
Law & Technology Conference
8 a.m. -- 1 p.m.
Biltmore Country Club
160 Biltmore Drive
North Barrington, IL 60010
Patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets -- intellectual property -- can be among a company’s most valuable assets. Thus it is important for a company to take the necessary actions to protect its intellectual property and to maximize the assets’ scope and value. The Law & Technology Conference sponsored by Clausen Miller P.C. focused on protective actions that can be taken during the creation, development and commercialization of intellectual property assets.
This event was geared towards:
- • Those corporations with new technologies that impact the internet age
- • Leading insurance Companies and Brokers on Innovative Products and Programs to meet new industry Challenges In the Internet Age
- • Venture Capitalist Firms on the Key Factors to Consider on Company Valuation and Funding
FEATURED TOPICS
Conception of Intellectual Property
The Conference discussed how to protect intellectual property rights from their inception. The inclusion of work for hire, non-disclosure and non-compete provisions in employee and independent contractors’ agreements are some of the ways to initially protect a company’s intellectual property.
Development of Intellectual Property
Conference attendees learned ways to protect intellectual property assets through the patent process, by maintaining the assets as a "trade secret" and protecting the assets by trademark or copyright. The advantages and disadvantages of the different strategies were explained by experienced attorneys from Clausen Miller P.C.
Commercialization of Intellectual Property
Before selling its first product or service, a company should confirm it has the necessary insurance coverage to protect it from legal claims arising from its business operations. Representatives from the insurance industry explained the types of insurance policies and programs available to help companies protect their intellectual property rights. Representatives experienced in funding new ventures discussed the issues associated with raising capital and the valuation of intellectual property.
Litigation Issues Concerning Intellectual Property
The defense and prosecution of intellectual property claims can threaten the economic stability of a company. When deciding to litigate an intellectual property claim, a company must consider: the importance of the intellectual property to the company; whether the intellectual property is properly protected; the direct and indirect costs associated with the prosecution or defense of the intellectual property; the venue of the litigation; and the ultimate result that might be obtained through litigation. These considerations were discussed by attorneys experienced in the defense and prosecution of intellectual property claims.
AGENDA
8:00 a.m. -- 8:45 a.m.
Registration & Breakfast
9:00 a.m. -- 10:15 a.m.
CM Presentations & Discussion
Patents & Trade Secrets
Key concepts and current trends.Trademarks & Copyrights
What they are and what do they protect?Employment
What to consider when hiring an employee or when retaining an independent contractor.Corporate Formation
What do investors look for?Insurance
New programs and policies for the internet age.Litigation Strategies
Alternative dispute resolution and considerations to protect intellectual property rights.
10:30 a.m. -- 11:30 a.m.
Guest Panel Discussion
Discussion lead by representatives of:
Corporations with new technologies that impact the internet age.
Leading insurance companies and brokers on innovative products and programs to meet new industry challenges in the internet age.
Venture capitalist firms on the key factors to consider on company valuation and funding.
11:30 a.m. -- 12:30 p.m.
Lunch Reception
1:00 p.m.
Tee Time
Join conference attendees for a complimentary round of golf (optional).
FEATURED SPEAKERS INCLUDED
James Barber counsels and represents corporations in the areas of employment policy. Jim also represents clients in disputes related to the enforcement of covenant not to compete, confidentiality agreements and trade secrets.
Michael Grimm concentrates his practice in the handling of litigation with corporate officers and directors. Mike counsels clients in areas of employment policy and litigation and financial institutions, insurance agents and brokers and investment firms.
