Filter by

star star star star star
14 Aug, 2024 by Todd whalen
Jay helped us to write up our contract to sell our business. He does great work and worked quickly. I thought his fees were very reasonable. I find him to be an all-around pleasant person to work with that has a good attitude. I’m definitely going to use him for our family estate planning. For anyone else who’s looking for a good lawyer, I couldn’t recommend Jay Mukerji high enough.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Aug, 2024 by Carolyn herrmann
She helped me understand the process and answered questions promptly. She was kind, compassionate, and plugged in every step of the way. A great person to have in your corner!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2024 by Tim hollon
He was so honest and helpful when all the big law firms didn't know diddly squat. He understood and could hear the trouble and irritation in my voice and was still willing to help.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
14 Aug, 2024 by Todd whalen
Jay helped us to write up our contract to sell our business. He does great work and worked quickly. I thought his fees were very reasonable. I find him to be an all-around pleasant person to work with that has a good attitude. I’m definitely going to use him for our family estate planning. For anyone else who’s looking for a good lawyer, I couldn’t recommend Jay Mukerji high enough.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Aug, 2024 by Carolyn herrmann
She helped me understand the process and answered questions promptly. She was kind, compassionate, and plugged in every step of the way. A great person to have in your corner!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2024 by Tim hollon
He was so honest and helpful when all the big law firms didn't know diddly squat. He understood and could hear the trouble and irritation in my voice and was still willing to help.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
04 Dec, 2020 by Wendy n.
While ann arbor presents many options for lawyers, I do not think there is a better option then Matthew McManus of McManus and Amadeo. He is a true leader and someone i would recommend to anyone in need
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
20 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous
The legal representation of McManus and Amadeo was absolutely wonderful!! They got to work in an expeditious manner. Their 24/7 availability and communication through the legal process was exceptional. Mr. McManus took his time and answered any concerns/questions that I had. As soon as news was provided to him, he personally delivered news to me.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
27 May, 2014 by Rena
Assisted our organization with overseas manufacturing/ confidentiality agreements to protect our IP while taking the time to explain the potential issues and legal options fully. The communication was excellent and all questions were promptly and thoroughly answered. Highly recommended.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
09 Mar, 2010 by Pamela
I have used Claudia Rast's services for several years on issues ranging from IP, to copyright and trademark, to contract law. She has always exceeded my expectations, gotten results, and done it in a way that is both ethical and non-combative. I can't recommend her highly enough!
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
04 Mar, 2010 by Sean
Ms. Rast is an extremely knowledgeable contract attorney who is a joy to work with. She was able to distill a 220 page federal contract our organization signed into extremely palatable sub-agreements for our diverse partners, while still retaining the critical components necessary. At all times, Ms. Rast is extremely sensitive to the needs of her clients. She provides thorough and quick turnaround on all client communications. We have worked with Ms. Rast on numerous projects in the past and will continue to do so in the future. She is extremely trustworthy and knowledgeable for all matters relevant to our needs in the environmental field.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
25 Feb, 2010 by Brian
Outstanding service over many years.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
10 Dec, 2012 by Stephen
I highly recommend Vincent Re as a patent attorney. He did an excellent job explaining the patent process and putting my idea into writing. He was always responsive, had good technical advice, and charged a very fair price. I am very pleased with the results thus far.
Read more Avvo
star star star star star
09 Jan, 2012 by A arruda
I don't have any other words to say about this patent attorney, he is just excellent. He can capture your idea and put it into words very precisely. I was very impressed with his skills in educating me about the patent process and in writing the description of my invention. He was approachable in all of our meetings. And at the end he charged me a very reasonable fee for the value provided.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
10 Feb, 2015 by Grace
Craig Redinger is a knowledgeable and personable patent attorney with world-class drafting, filing, and prosecution expertise. He has worked with Fortune 500 companies as a source of outside counsel as well as working with medium sized firms and startups. He took the time and care to evaluate the provisional patent filing for my non-electric heat technology startup Warmilu. In his review, he discovered a number of ways to optimize and improve the nonprovisional patent filing and offered a number of insights such as strategies for future patent filings, phrasing, patent prosecution, and a stronger understanding of timing for our type of patent filing. We continue to work with Young Basile Hanlon & MacFarlane because they offer world-class care, high quality work, innovation, and flexible pricing to meet and help you build a strong patent portfolio.
Read more Avvo
See more
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2024 by Chandra o
Mike was very knowledgeable with estate planning, wills and trusts! Great presentation!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Abagail jeavons
It has been so easy and straightforward to work with Rutkowski to establish our trust. We really appreciate the remote appointment model and have great peace of mind now that we have these things secured. We will definitely work with them again in the future when/if the trust needs amendments.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2024 by Dale schmidt
After losing my husband, Mike at Rutkowski Law Firm was very informative and was quick to respond to my situation. I would highly recommend using them for any legal needs. Friendly, professional and knowledgeable!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2024 by Chandra o
Mike was very knowledgeable with estate planning, wills and trusts! Great presentation!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Abagail jeavons
It has been so easy and straightforward to work with Rutkowski to establish our trust. We really appreciate the remote appointment model and have great peace of mind now that we have these things secured. We will definitely work with them again in the future when/if the trust needs amendments.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2024 by Dale schmidt
After losing my husband, Mike at Rutkowski Law Firm was very informative and was quick to respond to my situation. I would highly recommend using them for any legal needs. Friendly, professional and knowledgeable!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2024 by Chandra o
Mike was very knowledgeable with estate planning, wills and trusts! Great presentation!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Abagail jeavons
It has been so easy and straightforward to work with Rutkowski to establish our trust. We really appreciate the remote appointment model and have great peace of mind now that we have these things secured. We will definitely work with them again in the future when/if the trust needs amendments.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2024 by Dale schmidt
After losing my husband, Mike at Rutkowski Law Firm was very informative and was quick to respond to my situation. I would highly recommend using them for any legal needs. Friendly, professional and knowledgeable!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2024 by Chandra o
Mike was very knowledgeable with estate planning, wills and trusts! Great presentation!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Abagail jeavons
It has been so easy and straightforward to work with Rutkowski to establish our trust. We really appreciate the remote appointment model and have great peace of mind now that we have these things secured. We will definitely work with them again in the future when/if the trust needs amendments.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2024 by Dale schmidt
After losing my husband, Mike at Rutkowski Law Firm was very informative and was quick to respond to my situation. I would highly recommend using them for any legal needs. Friendly, professional and knowledgeable!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2024 by Chandra o
Mike was very knowledgeable with estate planning, wills and trusts! Great presentation!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Abagail jeavons
It has been so easy and straightforward to work with Rutkowski to establish our trust. We really appreciate the remote appointment model and have great peace of mind now that we have these things secured. We will definitely work with them again in the future when/if the trust needs amendments.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2024 by Dale schmidt
After losing my husband, Mike at Rutkowski Law Firm was very informative and was quick to respond to my situation. I would highly recommend using them for any legal needs. Friendly, professional and knowledgeable!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2024 by Chandra o
Mike was very knowledgeable with estate planning, wills and trusts! Great presentation!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Abagail jeavons
It has been so easy and straightforward to work with Rutkowski to establish our trust. We really appreciate the remote appointment model and have great peace of mind now that we have these things secured. We will definitely work with them again in the future when/if the trust needs amendments.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2024 by Dale schmidt
After losing my husband, Mike at Rutkowski Law Firm was very informative and was quick to respond to my situation. I would highly recommend using them for any legal needs. Friendly, professional and knowledgeable!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2024 by Chandra o
Mike was very knowledgeable with estate planning, wills and trusts! Great presentation!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Abagail jeavons
It has been so easy and straightforward to work with Rutkowski to establish our trust. We really appreciate the remote appointment model and have great peace of mind now that we have these things secured. We will definitely work with them again in the future when/if the trust needs amendments.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2024 by Dale schmidt
After losing my husband, Mike at Rutkowski Law Firm was very informative and was quick to respond to my situation. I would highly recommend using them for any legal needs. Friendly, professional and knowledgeable!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2024 by Chandra o
Mike was very knowledgeable with estate planning, wills and trusts! Great presentation!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Abagail jeavons
It has been so easy and straightforward to work with Rutkowski to establish our trust. We really appreciate the remote appointment model and have great peace of mind now that we have these things secured. We will definitely work with them again in the future when/if the trust needs amendments.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2024 by Dale schmidt
After losing my husband, Mike at Rutkowski Law Firm was very informative and was quick to respond to my situation. I would highly recommend using them for any legal needs. Friendly, professional and knowledgeable!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
21 Aug, 2024 by Chandra o
Mike was very knowledgeable with estate planning, wills and trusts! Great presentation!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Aug, 2024 by Abagail jeavons
It has been so easy and straightforward to work with Rutkowski to establish our trust. We really appreciate the remote appointment model and have great peace of mind now that we have these things secured. We will definitely work with them again in the future when/if the trust needs amendments.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Jun, 2024 by Dale schmidt
After losing my husband, Mike at Rutkowski Law Firm was very informative and was quick to respond to my situation. I would highly recommend using them for any legal needs. Friendly, professional and knowledgeable!
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Jul, 2023 by Thiany riddihough
I highly recommend ZVMLaw. I had the pleasure of working with Mackenzie C. Burns. He walked me through each aspect of my case beforehand and while we were working through it. He answered every question I had in detail and was very communicative. He genuinely cared about my case and it showed through his exceptional work. I couldn't be more pleased with the end result.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2023 by Arvind-pal mandair
Excellent Law firm. They worked with absolute integrity and took a genuine interest in my case. Zach was great to work with; he explained and simplified aspects of internet law in a way that was also very educational.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2022 by King of innovation
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
05 Jul, 2023 by Thiany riddihough
I highly recommend ZVMLaw. I had the pleasure of working with Mackenzie C. Burns. He walked me through each aspect of my case beforehand and while we were working through it. He answered every question I had in detail and was very communicative. He genuinely cared about my case and it showed through his exceptional work. I couldn't be more pleased with the end result.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Jan, 2023 by Arvind-pal mandair
Excellent Law firm. They worked with absolute integrity and took a genuine interest in my case. Zach was great to work with; he explained and simplified aspects of internet law in a way that was also very educational.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
18 Aug, 2022 by King of innovation
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
02 Aug, 2024 by Eric howell
One word... Amazing!!! Our company has been struggling to understand the INs & OUTs of what we need to trademark for serval months. We have spoken to serval different professionals and we found our home with J.J. and the Trademark Lawyer team. Look No Further
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
29 Jul, 2024 by Rhonda zorman
Mr. Lee knows the trademark landscape. He was very helpful on helping me figure out a complicated issues and answered all of my questions.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
26 Jul, 2024 by Sean quinn
Super fast, easy and comprehensive. A rare look inside the trademark database and an honest discussion about workability of trademarking my brands. Thank you.
Read more Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
07 Sep, 2024 by Sam dardeer
Thank you for being there for me and my family. Best law office in michigan... Thank you William
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Sep, 2024 by Herr
That's a law firm with ethics and principles. Thank you will
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Sep, 2024 by Gabby freitas
Google Maps
See more
star star star star star
24 Feb, 2024 by Maggie
I spoke to Ms. Martell the other day. I had previously reached out to her a day or so before. She return my call personally and was very kind. Ms. Martell provided my fiancée and I with very valuable and easy to understand legal advice with regard to LGBTQ parenting laws. We will definitely be using her for any of our estate planning and family needs. Please note: I was a bit thrown off by the rating, But as I always, do, I read the reviews carefully. The low ratings are not a reflection of this business. Sometime ago, a scammer used the name of this business. This is similar to how a catfish steals someone’s photo off social media to scam others. This law firm is not connected with the credit card scammers in ANY way. The owner of the business is just as much as a victim as anyone else that was affected by the criminals involved.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
31 May, 2023 by Michael de ianni
They're the victims, not you and your drained bank account. I got them on the phone and that was the story. It's their company and their name. The fact that they haven't addressed it speaks volumes. They are absolutely part of the scam. File a police report with your local PD They will contact Ann Arbor PD.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 May, 2023 by Robert ayala
Just reading reviews and situation. I was hit with a $300 fraud charge from this law firm. I’m dealing with the credit Union and getting new cards issued but a very bad way to start the Memorial Day weekend.
Read more Google Maps
See more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What an Intellectual Property Lawyer Can Do for You

An intellectual property (IP) lawyer specializes in protecting the rights related to creations of the mind, including inventions, designs, logos, brands, artistic works, and trade secrets. IP lawyers help clients secure legal rights to their intellectual property, enforce those rights, and defend against infringement claims. They can also assist with licensing agreements, negotiating royalties, and managing intellectual property portfolios.

Whether you're a business seeking to protect a trademark, an inventor patenting a new product, or an artist protecting your work from unauthorized use, an intellectual property lawyer ensures that your creations are legally safeguarded and helps you navigate the complex landscape of IP law.

When Should I Hire an Intellectual Property Lawyer?

Hiring an intellectual property lawyer is beneficial in many situations where you need to secure, protect, or defend your intellectual property rights. Key scenarios include:

  • Filing a patent: If you've invented a new product or process, a lawyer can help you apply for a patent and ensure the protection of your invention.
  • Trademarking a logo or brand name: To protect your business's brand identity, a lawyer can assist in trademarking logos, names, slogans, or symbols.
  • Copyright protection: If you’ve created an original work (e.g., a book, music, or software), a lawyer can help you register your copyright and ensure your rights are protected.
  • Trade secrets protection: For businesses with proprietary information, a lawyer can draft agreements to protect trade secrets and ensure they remain confidential.
  • Defending against infringement: If someone is using your intellectual property without permission, a lawyer can help you take legal action to stop the infringement and seek damages.
  • Licensing agreements: If you want to allow others to use your intellectual property for a fee, an IP lawyer can draft or negotiate licensing agreements that protect your interests.
  • IP portfolio management: If you have multiple forms of intellectual property, a lawyer can help you manage your IP portfolio, ensuring all assets are protected and strategically utilized.

Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help you avoid legal pitfalls and ensure that your intellectual property is adequately protected from the start.

What Does an Intellectual Property Lawyer Do?

An intellectual property lawyer provides a wide range of services to protect and enforce your intellectual property rights. They can:

  • File patents and trademarks: Helping you prepare and submit patent or trademark applications to protect your inventions, brands, or logos.
  • Register copyrights: Assisting with the registration of original creative works to ensure your rights are protected under copyright law.
  • Litigate infringement cases: Representing you in court if your intellectual property has been used without authorization or if you're accused of infringement.
  • Draft licensing agreements: Creating contracts that allow others to use your intellectual property while ensuring you retain control and receive appropriate compensation.
  • Manage IP portfolios: Helping businesses and individuals manage multiple forms of intellectual property, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets.
  • Conduct due diligence in business deals: Ensuring that intellectual property assets are properly valued and protected during mergers, acquisitions, or licensing agreements.
  • Monitor and enforce IP rights: Monitoring for potential infringement and taking legal action when necessary to protect your IP from unauthorized use.

How Are Intellectual Property Lawyers Paid?

Intellectual property lawyers typically charge for their services in different ways, depending on the complexity of the work and the type of intellectual property being protected. Common payment structures include:

  • Flat fee: For specific services such as filing a trademark or copyright application, many lawyers charge a flat fee that covers all the work required for that service.
  • Hourly rate: For more complex tasks, such as drafting licensing agreements or litigating infringement cases, lawyers may charge by the hour. Hourly rates vary depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
  • Contingency fee: In some cases, particularly for IP litigation, a lawyer may work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if they win or settle the case. Their fee would typically be a percentage of the settlement or damages awarded.
  • Retainer: For ongoing IP needs, some clients may pay a retainer fee upfront to secure the lawyer’s services, which the lawyer then bills against as they work on the case.

It’s essential to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer upfront to ensure there are no surprises.

How Much Does an Intellectual Property Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring an intellectual property lawyer depends on the complexity of the case and the type of intellectual property involved. General cost estimates include:

  • Trademark registration: The cost of registering a trademark can range from $500 to $2,000, depending on the complexity of the application and whether there are any issues during the registration process.
  • Patent filing: Filing a patent is often more expensive, with costs ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the type of patent (utility, design, etc.) and the complexity of the invention.
  • Copyright registration: Registering a copyright is usually less costly, with fees typically ranging from $300 to $1,500 for most creative works.
  • Litigation: If you’re involved in an IP dispute or infringement case, litigation can be costly, with fees ranging from $10,000 to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
  • Licensing agreements: Drafting or negotiating a licensing agreement can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, depending on the terms and complexity of the agreement.

Always get a clear estimate of costs during your initial consultation to ensure that the services are within your budget.

Top Questions to Ask an Intellectual Property Lawyer

Before hiring an intellectual property lawyer, it’s essential to ask questions that will help you determine if they are the right fit for your case. Here are some key questions to ask:

  1. What experience do you have with intellectual property law?
    Ensure that the lawyer has substantial experience with your specific type of intellectual property, whether it’s patents, trademarks, copyrights, or trade secrets.
  2. How do you charge for your services?
    Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or contingency, and get a clear estimate of what your case will cost.
  3. What is the likelihood of success with my application or case?
    A good lawyer should provide an honest assessment of the chances of successfully obtaining a patent, trademark, or copyright or winning an infringement case.
  4. How long will the process take?
    Ask about the expected timeline for filing your application or resolving your dispute, as IP matters can sometimes take months or years to finalize.
  5. What steps will you take to protect my intellectual property?
    Ask the lawyer how they will help ensure your intellectual property is fully protected and what strategies they use to enforce IP rights.
  6. Have you handled cases similar to mine?
    If your case involves specific industries or technologies, ask whether the lawyer has worked with similar clients and what the outcomes were.

How to Check the Credibility of an Intellectual Property Lawyer

To ensure that you’re hiring a reputable intellectual property lawyer, take the following steps:

  • Check their standing with the state bar: Verify that the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state and has no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Look for specific IP experience: Check their website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in intellectual property law and have successfully handled cases like yours.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what past clients have said about their experience with the lawyer.
  • Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be willing to provide references from past clients who can speak to their professionalism and success in handling IP matters.
  • Check for certifications or memberships: Membership in organizations like the International Trademark Association (INTA) or the American Intellectual Property Law Association (AIPLA) can indicate expertise in intellectual property law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To get the most out of your first meeting with an intellectual property lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant information and documents. Here’s what you should bring:

  • A detailed description of your invention, brand, or creative work: Be prepared to explain what you are seeking to protect, including any unique aspects or characteristics of your intellectual property.
  • Any existing IP registrations or applications: If you’ve already filed for trademarks, patents, or copyrights, bring copies of the relevant documents.
  • Information on potential infringers: If you are dealing with an infringement issue, provide details of the alleged infringer, including evidence of the infringement, such as images, documents, or correspondence.
  • Questions about the process: Write down any questions you have about protecting or enforcing your intellectual property rights, including timelines, costs, and potential outcomes.
  • Your goals: Be clear about what you want to achieve, whether it’s securing a patent, protecting a brand, or enforcing your IP rights against unauthorized use.

Being prepared for your first consultation will help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide you with the best possible advice for protecting your intellectual property.

Scroll to top