Intellectual property (IP) includes assets such as ideas, designs, inventions, brand logos, music, written works, and other creations. When someone with a new idea or innovation decides they want to patent their creation or obtain a trademark or copyright, it is important to consider consulting with an experienced IP attorney who specializes in this area of law. Many people contact a general practice attorney for their intellectual property needs, however this may not provide the complete legal advice and protections that are needed. War IP Law PLLC in Washington DC will explain why you need the expertise of an IP attorney, and how we can help you protect your intellectual property rights. Contact our experienced intellectual property attorneys at our firm today at (202) 800-3754.
What Is an Intellectual Property Lawyer?
Unlike general practice attorneys who handle many types of legal matters, IP lawyers specialize in a very specific area of the law involving patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Those specialize in IP law undergo different types of education and training in areas of sciences, technology, or math.
Intellectual property attorneys have responsibilities related to protecting clients’ IP, which may include:
- Consulting with clients and providing guidance on patents, licenses, trademarks and other IP matters
- Providing clients advice regarding their legal rights and actions concerning intellectual property
- Drafting trademark, patent applications, and other important legal documents; review of these documents
- Providing additional information or explanations to the USPTO when necessary to maximize the possibility that a client receives a patent or trademark
- Filing lawsuits when necessary; negotiating legal settlements against those that attempt to misappropriate or steal intellectual property
- Creating new licensing agreements or contracts regarding intellectual property
- Perform research, conduct interviews, and other activities necessary to assist with legal proceedings and court cases in order to defend a creator’s intellectual property rights or to protect those accused of violating the intellectual property rights of others.
An experienced intellectual property attorney will understand the nuanced areas of IP law, and help clients understand their different legal options in order to effectively protect their intellectual property.
How IP Lawyers Differ from General Practice Attorneys
There are lawyers who have specialize in a variety of areas including family law, personal injury, criminal defense, bankruptcy, business litigation, consumer law, environmental law, and many others. IP lawyers, however, go through extensive training and must pass both the state bar exam as well as the United States Patents and Trademark Office (USPTO) exam.
General practice lawyers represent clients with a wide array of legal matters and normally don’t have experience with intellectual property laws. General practice attorneys are normally highly capable in the practice areas they may work in. However, most do not have the experience with intellectual property rights, protection, and infringement. As such, it is important to consider visiting with a knowledgeable and dedicated IP attorney for your intellectual property needs.
Advantages of an IP Law Firm Over General Practice Firms
Experienced intellectual property attorneys have specific knowledge of the subtleties of the USPTO and their expectations. While filing for a trademark or patent is an important part of securing intellectual property rights, an IP attorney can also argue on your behalf if your trademark or patent application is rejected. Additionally, if you have obtained intellectual property rights under the law through a patent or trademark, an IP law firm can protect those rights against anyone attempting to use your intellectual property unlawfully. Alternatively, if you have been accused of violating the intellectual property rights of another, an IP attorney can defend you from these accusations.
There are several different types of intellectual property matters that can benefit from the expertise of an IP attorney including:
- Patents
- Trademarks
- Copyrights
- Trade Secrets
Each of these areas of law are unique and complex. Without the expertise of an IP attorney, a person that has legally unprotected intellectual property could suffer financial recourse from those who may either steal or misappropriate that property. Visiting with an attorney that understands the complex and challenging area of intellectual property law can help protect a creator’s legal and financial rights.
IP And The United States Economy
According to the United States Department of State our country is one of the most innovative countries in the world. Considering Americans invented the smartphone, microchip, and even the internet, it is easy to see why it is so important to protect our intellectual property and defend against theft or infringement.
The idea of entrepreneurship and creation is embedded within American culture. Creating new technologies, art, and science is critical to the fabric of our nation. As a result, intellectual property-intensive industries account for nearly 28 million jobs, 46% of wage premiums, and 38% of the Gross Domestic Products (GDP). While intellectual property is not tangible property, it is just as vital to the economy and development of our country.
Unfortunately, IP crimes cost our economy billions of dollars. Make sure that your intellectual property remains protected by contacting an experienced intellectual property attorney at War IP Law PLLC today.
Consider Consulting With Our Experienced IP Attorneys Today
Is your creation or idea able to be protected under intellectual property laws? Many people are confused or unsure if they have works that are considered intellectual property and whether or not those works can or should be protected. Whether it is writing the lyrics for a song, music, written works such as poetry or a novel, a product invention, technology, a company logo or brand, a movie, or other creative works, you should prioritize the protection of your intellectual property and your legal rights.
Patents, trademarks, copyrights, and licenses are various IP tools used to protect a client’s work from infringement or theft. In the event someone’s intellectual property is used unlawfully or stolen, it is important to consider having an IP attorney to fight on behalf of the client and to protect their intellectual property rights.
There are many reasons why a person that developed intellectual property would need the expertise of an IP attorney. Intellectual property is an area of the law that is complex and confusing. At War IP Law PLLC our top priority is helping clients reach their desired outcome by providing guidance and advice they can easily understand and digest. Consider scheduling a consultation with our firm today at (202) 800-3754.
