We strive to give our clients the most innovative, efficient, and systematic means for protecting and enforcing their rights in the use of technology. Trade Secrets Trade secrets are related to, but distinct from, patents. Under the laws of most states, trade secrets are information, processes, or devices having a commercial value that are treated in a confidential or secret manner and which are not generally known or disclosed to the public. In some cases, there are advantages to treating a device or process as a trade secret rather than protecting it by patent. The Intellectual Property Department can assist clients in assessing the relative advantages of protection for trade secrets over other types of protection.
Firm attorneys have experience in a broad range of state and federal regulatory issues.
The attorneys in Chapman and Cutler s Intellectual Property Department are well versed in the issues relating to international protection, transfer, and exploitation of technology and intellectual property. They prepare and negotiate international licenses, technical assistance, and joint venture agreements on behalf of foreign companies seeking to bring their technology to the United States, and for domestic companies seeking to market their technologies abroad. They can also handle the worldwide intellectual property filing that is required for extra-territorial protection of a client s patents, trademarks, copyrights, and other intellectual property rights. Because import, export, and international trade protection issues are of such great concern to many clients, Chapman and Cutler attorneys frequently work with the Commerce Department, Department of the Treasury, State Department, and associated agencies and commissions in compliance and enforcement matters. Intellectual Property Department attorneys apply their professional backgrounds and skills to a broad diversity of clients.