Opinion ID: 2591097
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 9

Heading: The Donald Sonntag Matter

Text: Donald Sonntag is a Division Manager of ProSys Packaging Equipment (ProSys). ProSys designs and manufactures high-speed packaging machines for the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and chemical industries. ProSys' ability to patent its designs has been a key component in its competitive edge against foreign competitors. Mr. Sonntag and his company have been working with Respondent since 1989 and his work has included meeting deadlines to pay fees and submitting applications to the USPTO and foreign patent offices. On August 6, 2007, ProSys instructed Respondent to file a patent application with a deadline of October 25, 2007. Respondent never filed this application. The deadline passed, as well as a six-month extension/grace period, and ProSys was thereafter unable to obtain patent coverage due to Respondent's negligence. This allows competitors of ProSys to copy their unique and innovative technology. As a result of this conduct, Respondent violated Colo. RPC 1.1, 1.3, 1.4(a) and 1.4(b).