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30 Apr, 2024 by Neal apple gate
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22 Apr, 2023 by Chuck dickerson
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02 Aug, 2014 by David
Matt is an incredible lawyer. He represented represented me in a complex international case and had an amazing grip of the facts. He winnowed down over 200,00 emails and documents into a concise, cogent argument that got the case to mediation and settlement. Highly recommended!!
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24 May, 2019 by Mylan t.
Thanks for the consultation! Andrew was very helpful and kind in helping us with our issue.
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15 Apr, 2019 by Nobaloney mahoney
Always available and reasonable. I've used Andrew since 1999😁
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01 Oct, 2014 by Ana
Helped me get the Green card through the DV program the one and only time I applied for it. Very professional and inexpensive. Thank you!
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20 Oct, 2020 by Mr v
Great folks!
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30 May, 2014 by Noel
Matt has represented me for years in various high profile patent disputes. He has a solid understanding of the law, is a tenacious advocate, and has a very effective style that works well in court and dealing with the other side. Personally, Matt is loyal, a straight-shooter, and an absolute pleasure to work with. I strongly recommend as a first chair patent litigator, both plaintiff and defense.
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12 Mar, 2010 by Carrie
I first became acquainted with Matt back in Nov. of 2006. I was being sued for patent violations, along with a myriad of other bogus charges. I needed someone who was knowledgeable in patent law, but because of all the other extraneous charges, I also needed someone who knew the legalities of Trade Dress, Trade Secrets, Anti Trust etc, etc. Honestly, after looking at several law firms, I decided on Matt’s firm because of the reasonable fees. They had a solid reputation for getting good results on a smaller budget than most other firms. I needed someone basically, who I could afford. Everyone who has been involved in such cases knows that they can drag on seemingly “forever”! Now I know the reason why after living with it for the past 3+ years. When people throw the book at you, it takes time to plead your case. Matt has been able to get this case whittled down to the bare bones, but one has to understand that a certain “chain of events” must occur. Matt has addressed each and every charge, step by step, filing motions, replies, briefs, exhibits and so forth with as much enthusiasm now as the first day I met him. He always has been reassuring, positive and upbeat – and rightfully so, because with each ruling from the judge, came another small victory. My case was unique in that we had to work in unison with another law firm representing two other parties being sued in the same lawsuit. That meant that Matt had to collaborate with other lawyers. In many cases this could result in a nightmare! Matt and the other lawyers seemed to work fluently together, even when the lead council of the other law firm left in the middle of the case and was replaced by another attorney. I will never forget Matt’s persistence during a deposition. He knew exactly what he needed to get “on the record” and question after question was asked. The answers came one by one, with no detail left unspoken. I think he rather enjoyed that! All the answers were exactly what he expected. When you watch someone in action like that, there’s nothing better. It’s like watching an artist paint a picture. First you see one thing, then another, and then finally you see the whole picture. Matt had that picture in his mind all along and then we got to see it come to life. I have learned that a lot of skill and patience goes into taking a thorough deposition. Usually the last thing a person wants is a phone call from a lawyer. Not the case with Matt! First of all, it’s usually good news when he calls. Secondly, he has become a friend over the years and just a really nice guy. I have had the opportunity to meet his whole family and one can just tell that they are a family with strong values, one of those rare kinds of “Norman Rockwell” families (corny but true). I even got to meet his father, who is very well respected in the legal world. The bottom line is this: God forbid I ever get sued again, but if I do, Matt would be my first phone call.
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20 Dec, 2023 by Catherine hammond
Having worked with several attorneys at Ireland Stapleton on different matters I have been incredibly impressed with the professionalism, attentiveness, and communication of the entire ISPP team. Specifically, Michelle Ferguson and K.C. Groves have been amazing and incredibly kind through matters that could otherwise have felt challenging. Special thanks to Barbara Laff for the connection and guidance as well.
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17 Jun, 2022 by Rick kirwin
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02 Mar, 2016 by Deana
Mark Lacis has been an incredible attorney in my experience with him. He did everything he told me he would do and did it promptly while keeping me informed step-by-step . Mark made me feel confident in all the difficult decisions I had to make and made me feel safe during one of the most stressful times in my life. His knowledge, confidence, and compassion is the reason my case was a success! I HIGHLY recommend Mark Lacis! Thank you Mark ! You are #1 in my book!!
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22 Dec, 2022 by Martin reyna
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23 Jan, 2020 by Wendy holder
Excellence at it's best!
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26 Sep, 2014 by Joann
Mr. Sokatch was ahead of our situation at every turn. His thought processes never stopped as he kept thinking of ways to benefit our position. It was a comfort and a pleasure working with him. And we felt we were in good hands at all times. He was recommended to us and he was an amazing asset to us throughout the entire process.
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24 Jan, 2023 by Asher katz
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30 Jan, 2019 by Robert
Christine was amazing throughout the whole process. She has the unique ability to offer a gentle touch when needed and then was able to do what was necessary to meet my needs. She presents herself well orally and is not afraid to use those oral skills to make others surrender to what she is looking to accomplish. I highly recommend her and know if I ever need representation again, she is the one I would call.
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27 Nov, 2018 by Erica
Christine is beyond intelligent and personable. She will know what you need done with your case to get the best results.
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12 Sep, 2020 by B hj
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09 Jan, 2012 by Kathey
Nina's strong business knowledge makes her easy to work with - she understands small businesses, in addition to law. I also appreciate that her advice on contracts is always focused on making the deal work, and on staying out of court. The overall result is she provides very cost-effective legal advice.
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25 Dec, 2011 by Steve
I've known Nina for more than the 30 years she has been practicing in California. She has always directly handled people I've referred to her or recommended other, better suited lawyers. She is honest in her opinions, capable beyond question in her field, and fair in her dealings with clients and adversaries. She is my go-to lawyer in CA. If you want a lawyer who keeps your best interests at the fore, then Nina is the person to hire.
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11 Aug, 2016 by Joseph carlson
Great person and great professionalism!
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13 May, 2016 by Jason
Kumar has helped to protect my small business in ways that other attorneys have not been able to. He's a tremendous asset simply because he "get's it". It's rare to find such a great lawyer that understands technology and can think like an entrepreneur. If you want that bulldog of a lawyer, then look no further!
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29 Feb, 2016 by Phil
I spent 20+ years as an executive in the wireless industry. Our new intellectual property company has business complexities that require a specialized, technical focus. Kumar has unique skills that sets him apart from other attorneys. His attention to detail and fast-learning capabilities have been most refreshing and are exceeding expectations. He has given us confidence that our IP assets are in good hands. Phil NxGen Partners, LLC
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22 Dec, 2022 by Martin reyna
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23 Jan, 2020 by Wendy holder
Excellence at it's best!
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23 Feb, 2010 by Anonymous
Alex was thoroughly helpful in getting a difficult matter resolved in an efficient way. I would recommend him to anyone seeking good legal counsel.
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16 Jan, 2024 by Roxanna knight
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01 Jan, 2023 by Kristin
I hired Carter for an atypical eviction case. He was extremely effective, efficient, communicative and kind. He explained everything clearly and did what he said he would do when he said he would do it. I have hired really bad lawyers, good ones and great ones. Carter is a great one. I can't recommend him highly enough. I would hire him again in a second.
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26 Sep, 2016 by Glenn
Sean Hsu is fierce, diligent trial attorney. I worked with Sean for four years at a previous firm, and he continuously impressed me with his knowledge of the law, his dedication to his clients, and his willingness to put in the extra work to win his cases.
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11 Aug, 2016 by Joseph carlson
Great person and great professionalism!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Zachary kochy
I got a traffic citation when traveling home from vacation. Cotten Law Firm handled my case for me so I didn’t have to travel 6 hours back to NC. Case was reduced to Improper Equipment. Could not have been more pleased! I called multiple times to check on things and was always greeted by a kind and helpful person on the other end of the phone. Highly recommend!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Hambuild 03
Was able to reduce a 81 in a 55 to 69 in a 55 and avoid my insurance from going up!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo chirinos
I recently hired Cotten Law to represent me in court for a traffic violation (never had to use the services of a law firm before) I was surprised with the low cost of representation and I’m impressed on how they handled my case and protected my driving record, they got my charges dismissed and protected me and my drivers license from points, I highly recommend this law firm, Jeremy Cotten was in point and very professional!!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Zachary kochy
I got a traffic citation when traveling home from vacation. Cotten Law Firm handled my case for me so I didn’t have to travel 6 hours back to NC. Case was reduced to Improper Equipment. Could not have been more pleased! I called multiple times to check on things and was always greeted by a kind and helpful person on the other end of the phone. Highly recommend!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Hambuild 03
Was able to reduce a 81 in a 55 to 69 in a 55 and avoid my insurance from going up!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo chirinos
I recently hired Cotten Law to represent me in court for a traffic violation (never had to use the services of a law firm before) I was surprised with the low cost of representation and I’m impressed on how they handled my case and protected my driving record, they got my charges dismissed and protected me and my drivers license from points, I highly recommend this law firm, Jeremy Cotten was in point and very professional!!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Zachary kochy
I got a traffic citation when traveling home from vacation. Cotten Law Firm handled my case for me so I didn’t have to travel 6 hours back to NC. Case was reduced to Improper Equipment. Could not have been more pleased! I called multiple times to check on things and was always greeted by a kind and helpful person on the other end of the phone. Highly recommend!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Hambuild 03
Was able to reduce a 81 in a 55 to 69 in a 55 and avoid my insurance from going up!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo chirinos
I recently hired Cotten Law to represent me in court for a traffic violation (never had to use the services of a law firm before) I was surprised with the low cost of representation and I’m impressed on how they handled my case and protected my driving record, they got my charges dismissed and protected me and my drivers license from points, I highly recommend this law firm, Jeremy Cotten was in point and very professional!!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Zachary kochy
I got a traffic citation when traveling home from vacation. Cotten Law Firm handled my case for me so I didn’t have to travel 6 hours back to NC. Case was reduced to Improper Equipment. Could not have been more pleased! I called multiple times to check on things and was always greeted by a kind and helpful person on the other end of the phone. Highly recommend!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Hambuild 03
Was able to reduce a 81 in a 55 to 69 in a 55 and avoid my insurance from going up!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo chirinos
I recently hired Cotten Law to represent me in court for a traffic violation (never had to use the services of a law firm before) I was surprised with the low cost of representation and I’m impressed on how they handled my case and protected my driving record, they got my charges dismissed and protected me and my drivers license from points, I highly recommend this law firm, Jeremy Cotten was in point and very professional!!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Zachary kochy
I got a traffic citation when traveling home from vacation. Cotten Law Firm handled my case for me so I didn’t have to travel 6 hours back to NC. Case was reduced to Improper Equipment. Could not have been more pleased! I called multiple times to check on things and was always greeted by a kind and helpful person on the other end of the phone. Highly recommend!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Hambuild 03
Was able to reduce a 81 in a 55 to 69 in a 55 and avoid my insurance from going up!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo chirinos
I recently hired Cotten Law to represent me in court for a traffic violation (never had to use the services of a law firm before) I was surprised with the low cost of representation and I’m impressed on how they handled my case and protected my driving record, they got my charges dismissed and protected me and my drivers license from points, I highly recommend this law firm, Jeremy Cotten was in point and very professional!!!
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26 Aug, 2024 by Zachary kochy
I got a traffic citation when traveling home from vacation. Cotten Law Firm handled my case for me so I didn’t have to travel 6 hours back to NC. Case was reduced to Improper Equipment. Could not have been more pleased! I called multiple times to check on things and was always greeted by a kind and helpful person on the other end of the phone. Highly recommend!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Hambuild 03
Was able to reduce a 81 in a 55 to 69 in a 55 and avoid my insurance from going up!
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22 Aug, 2024 by Ricardo chirinos
I recently hired Cotten Law to represent me in court for a traffic violation (never had to use the services of a law firm before) I was surprised with the low cost of representation and I’m impressed on how they handled my case and protected my driving record, they got my charges dismissed and protected me and my drivers license from points, I highly recommend this law firm, Jeremy Cotten was in point and very professional!!!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
Simplemente los mejores
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
Great service
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
Simplemente los mejores
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
Simplemente los mejores
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
Great service
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
Simplemente los mejores
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
Simplemente los mejores
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
Simplemente los mejores
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
Simplemente los mejores
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Doroteo sanchez
Simplemente los mejores
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26 Aug, 2024 by G b
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25 Aug, 2024 by Jacquie holmes
I reached out to Sarah for assistance. She was so quick to answer and provided me the information I needed. I highly recommend this firm! Call her first!
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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.

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