IP Litigation

The experienced attorneys at Snyder Miller & Orton LLP handle a broad spectrum of intellectual property ("IP") matters. Our expertise encompasses every aspect of IP law, including patent, trademark, and copyright infringement, as well as trade secret misappropriation and unfair competition matters. Located near Silicon Valley, we have particular expertise in handling technology and computer-related matters. For more information about specific matters we have handled and are currently handling, please see our intellectual property cases page.  

Patent

We understand the impact pursing an infringer or defending an infringement claim can have on your business, and our attorneys have a long record of success representing both plaintiffs and defendants in patent infringement litigation. Patent infringement cases are often intricate, and our ability to manage and successfully handle high-value, complex matters ensures that we can resolve patent infringement matters as efficiently and successfully as possible. We have represented numerous websites, computer chip manufacturers, and many other high-tech companies in patent matters. Using our extensive knowledge of the law as well as the technical and scientific aspects of these cases, we can help your business obtain the best possible solution.

 

Trademark

A business's trademark is often one of its most valuable assets. Therefore, an infringement of the trademark can have a significant impact on the company's reputation in the marketplace, as well as the value of the brand overall. Recognizing the impact this can have on a business, we actively pursue infringement matters to protect our clients' business goodwill and assets. In one noteworthy case, firm partner Peter Meringolo successfully prosecuted a trademark infringement case against an individual on eBay who was selling counterfeit Tommy Bahama goods. With the current global economic climate and the ease with which individuals and businesses can sell counterfeit goods, it is vital for businesses to be vigilant and protect its valuable trademarks.

 

Copyright

As the world increasingly relies on the internet and other digital storage devices for communication, it is possible for anyone to infringe upon another's copyright. We pursue and defend cases of copyright infringement, breach of licensing agreement, and handle questions of copyrightability and authorship. In addition to computer-related copyright issues, we handle matters under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act ("DMCA"), as well as matters involving printed materials, audio and video recordings, musical compositions, artwork, architectural works, and luxury items.

 

Trade Secrets and Unfair Competition

For many businesses, their most valuable intellectual property asset is not one protected by federal patent, trademark, or copyright laws. Trade secrets include typically confidential items such as customer lists, operating information, scientific formulas, creative ideas, instruments, patterns, or designs. These cases often arise when a high-level employee leaves the plaintiff trade secret holder and moves to a competitor, where there can be a potential risk for disclosure of trade secrets. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling these cases, and they have represented both plaintiffs and defendants in a wide variety of trade secret and unfair competition matters.