Omid Khalifeh, Author at Omni Legal Group Blog

Navigating the Federal Trademark Search: A Step-by-Step Guide

Embarking on the journey of establishing a brand or a product often involves securing a trademark, a critical step in protecting your intellectual property. Before filing a trademark application, conducting a thorough federal trademark search is essential. This search helps in determining whether your proposed mark or a similar one is already in use, thereby reducing the risk of infringement and potential legal disputes. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of conducting a federal trademark search.

Step 1: Understanding the Importance of a Federal Trademark Search

The first step in conducting a federal trademark search is understanding its significance. A trademark search isn’t just a formality; it’s a necessary due diligence process. This search identifies potential conflicts with existing trademarks registered or pending with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Ignoring this step can lead to legal challenges, including opposition to your trademark application or, worse, infringement lawsuits from existing trademark holders.

Step 2: Preparing for the Search

Preparation is key. Start by clearly defining your trademark – it could be a word, phrase, symbol, design, or a combination of these. Understand the goods or services your trademark will represent because similarity in related fields often becomes a ground for conflict. It’s also beneficial to have a list of variations of your trademark, including phonetic equivalents, to ensure a comprehensive search.

Step 3: Using the USPTO’s TESS Database

The primary tool for a federal trademark search is the USPTO’s Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS). TESS is a free online database that contains all active and many inactive federal trademarks. Familiarize yourself with the different search options – Basic Word Mark Search, Structured Form Search, and Free Form Search. Each option has its utility depending on how common or unique your proposed trademark is. For comprehensive results, consider using a combination of search types.

Step 4: Analyzing Search Results

Analyzing search results requires meticulous attention. Look for trademarks that are identical or similar to yours, keeping in mind both the mark itself and the goods or services it represents. Pay close attention to the ‘live’ or ‘dead’ status of trademarks. A ‘live’ status indicates an active trademark that could pose a conflict, whereas a ‘dead’ status typically signifies an abandoned or expired trademark. However, even ‘dead’ trademarks can be tricky, as they may influence USPTO’s decision if there’s a possibility of consumer confusion.

Conclusion

A federal trademark search is a complex yet vital process in securing your brand’s identity. While the steps outlined provide a foundational understanding, the nuances of trademark law and search strategies often necessitate professional expertise. For those unfamiliar with the process or seeking assurance, consulting with an intellectual property attorney can be invaluable. They can provide not only an in-depth search but also strategic advice on trademark selection and the overall application process, ensuring the best protection for your brand.

Does your Business need a Trademark in 2024?

In the modern, hypercompetitive world of business, trademarks emerge as the silent pillars of a company’s identity. While they might not always grab the headlines, their influence resonates through every aspect of a brand’s interaction with its customers and competition.

Whether it’s a unique logo or a catchy slogan, trademarks are the subtle yet powerful forces that help distinguish a business in a sea of competition. In this article, we’ll break down the importance of trademarks and guide you through the considerations involved in deciding if your business needs this legal safeguard.

The Importance of Trademarks in Business

Without an established brand, businesses are often drowned out in the competitive marketplace. Building a brand allows businesses to resonate with their audience and establish a sustainable business.

However, without a trademark, brands are left vulnerable and exposed to the risk of imitation and confusion in the market. Trademarks are pivotal in not only building but also protecting a brand’s identity, acting as both a shield and a signature.

Establishing your Brand Identity

Trademarks serve as unique identifiers, enabling customers to easily distinguish a brand’s products or services from others in the market. This distinctiveness builds brand reputation and customer loyalty.

Trademarks also provide a competitive edge in the market, acting as recognizable symbols that simplify customer decisions. Moreover, they support long-term business growth and expansion across industries, maintaining brand consistency. Thus, trademarks are not just legal rights; they are strategic assets integral to a brand’s identity and success.

Legal Protection of Intellectual Property

The importance of trademarks extend much further than just branding. It’s a fortress in the legal landscape, offering protection against infringement and misuse. This shield not only safeguards your business’s creative assets but also ensures that your customers are not misled by counterfeit brands. In the world of business, a trademark is your line of defense, ensuring that your brand and its values remain intact.

Evaluating your Need for a Trademark

Most businesses benefit from trademarks, with recent studies estimating that trademarks make up a third of corporate value. However, the financial investment deters many small businesses. Fortunately, there are a few questions you can ask yourself to determine if trademarks are a worthwhile investment:

Is your brand’s name, logo, or slogan unique? Distinct brands benefit most from trademark protection.
Are you operating locally, nationally, or internationally? The broader your market, the more beneficial a trademark can be.
Do you plan to expand your business or enter new markets? A trademark can facilitate this growth while maintaining brand consistency.
Is there a risk of competitors copying your brand elements? A trademark provides legal protection against such infringements.

Remember, while most businesses benefit from registering a trademark, it’s crucial and in your best interest to consult with a reputable trademark attorney. An expert can provide tailored advice based on your specific business circumstances and goals, ensuring you make an informed decision about protecting your brand.

**Getting Started with your Trademark? Contact an Experience Trademark Attorney in Los Angeles Today!**

Embarking on the journey to secure a trademark for your business might seem daunting, but the process can be simplified with professional guidance. It begins with identifying a unique trademark that represents your brand effectively. The next step involves conducting a thorough search to ensure your chosen trademark isn’t already in use. Finally, the registration process solidifies your legal claim to the trademark.

For further information and/or to schedule a consultation with one of expert Los Angeles trademark attorneys please contact Omni Legal Group at 310.860.2000 or visit www.OmniLegalGroup.com to learn more.

5 Essential Tips for Choosing the Right Business Lawyer for Your Company

When selecting a business lawyer for your company, the decision can have a significant impact on your business’s legal and financial future. Here are five essential tips to consider when choosing the right business lawyer:

1. Assess Your Company’s Legal Needs: Understanding your company’s specific legal needs is the first step in choosing the right lawyer. Are you seeking general legal counsel, or do you need expertise in a specific area such as intellectual property, mergers and acquisitions, or employment law? A lawyer who has experience in your industry and with businesses of your size and type can be more effective in addressing your specific concerns.

2. Look for Relevant Experience and Expertise: Once you’ve identified your needs, seek a lawyer who has the relevant experience and expertise. This could mean choosing someone who has worked with similar companies or dealt with similar legal issues. Their experience will be invaluable in navigating the complexities of business law and providing tailored advice.

3. Consider Their Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial. Your lawyer should not only be able to understand your business and its needs but also communicate legal concepts to you in a clear, concise manner. A lawyer who is a good communicator can make complex legal issues more understandable and help you make informed decisions.

4. Evaluate Their Professional Network: A lawyer with a strong professional network can be an asset to your business. This network can include other legal specialists, business advisors, and industry contacts. Such connections can be invaluable in providing comprehensive support for your business beyond just legal advice.

5. Understand the Fee Structure: Transparency in billing and a clear understanding of the fee structure are crucial when selecting a lawyer. Whether they charge a flat fee, hourly rate, or have a retainer model, ensure that their fee structure aligns with your company’s budget and the nature of your legal needs. Don’t hesitate to discuss potential additional costs or how unforeseen circumstances might affect billing.

In conclusion, choosing the right business lawyer involves a careful consideration of your company’s unique needs, the lawyer’s experience and expertise, communication style, professional network, and fee structure. By taking these factors into account, you can find a legal partner who will not only protect your company’s legal interests but also contribute to its overall success.

Understanding the Importance of Contracts in Business

Contracts are the backbone of any business operation. They provide clarity, set expectations, and protect the interests of all parties involved. In a world where verbal agreements can be misinterpreted or forgotten, having formal contracts in place is not just smart; it’s essential for the smooth running and legal safeguarding of your business. This blog post will outline the key types of contracts that every business owner should be aware of and consider implementing.

1. Employment Agreements

First and foremost, employment agreements are vital. These documents outline the terms of employment, including salary, benefits, job responsibilities, and grounds for termination. They help prevent disputes by ensuring both employer and employee have a clear understanding of their relationship. These agreements can also contain non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to protect your trade secrets and non-compete clauses to safeguard your business interests post-employment.

2. Client and Supplier Contracts

For businesses that provide services or products, contracts with clients or customers are crucial. These outline the scope of the work, payment terms, timelines, and what happens if something goes wrong. Similarly, supplier or vendor contracts are equally important. They should detail the goods or services being purchased, delivery expectations, payment terms, and how to handle disputes. These contracts help in building stable relationships with external parties and ensure a steady flow of products or services.

3. Partnership Agreements

If you’re in a business partnership, a partnership agreement is non-negotiable. This contract should detail each partner’s investment, responsibilities, profit-sharing, and decision-making power. It should also outline procedures for resolving conflicts, bringing in new partners, or what happens if a partner wants to leave. A well-crafted partnership agreement can prevent a lot of headaches and conflicts down the line.

4. Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

In the digital age, if your business operates online, having a Terms of Service and Privacy Policy is a must. The Terms of Service contract sets the rules for using your website or products and protects your intellectual property. The Privacy Policy is a legal requirement in many jurisdictions, especially if you collect any personal data from users. It outlines how you collect, use, and protect customer information, which is crucial for building trust with your users.

5. Lease Agreements

Lastly, if your business operates out of a physical location that you don’t own, a lease agreement is essential. This contract between you and your landlord outlines terms regarding rent, use of the property, maintenance responsibilities, and the lease’s duration. A clear lease agreement can prevent disputes related to your business premises, which is a critical operational aspect.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the type of contracts required can vary based on the nature of your business, these five types of agreements form the fundamental legal framework for most businesses. They not only safeguard your business interests but also provide a clear legal path for handling various situations that arise in the business world. Remember, when in doubt, it’s always best to consult with a legal professional to ensure that your contracts are comprehensive and tailored to your specific business needs. Contracts are not just paperwork; they are the pillars that can support your business through its growth and challenges.

Necessary Steps For A Successful Mediation

Mediation is an alternate method to resolve a dispute in business or other civil actions. Although not mandatory in California, except for child custody matters, parties in a civil dispute can agree to mediation as a productive way to recognize common ground and create paths to settlement.

As one of the top business attorneys in Los Angeles, Omni Legal Group found that offering mediation services to clients provided an economical way to solve disputes by focusing on solutions rather than arguments.

Step 1: The Subject Documents

Each party and the mediator must know the documents at issue, and the mediator must be given ample time to prepare. The preparation of the parties and the mediator will be based on these documents.

Step 2: The Decision Makers

The decision-makers of each party must attend the mediation. Mediating a business dispute can either be a solution to maintain and continue an ongoing relationship, or for the parties to amicably part ways without one party feeling like it lost.

Attorneys should always accompany their clients to mediations and never attend nor make a decision on their own.

Step 3: Listen

The most effective communication tool is listening. The art of listening is to do so from the other side’s perspective.

Everyone involved in mediation can ask questions if and when something is not understood.

Step 4: Keep Both Sides Content

Mediation aims not to find which party is right or wrong; no party should feel like they won. Both parties should content enough to proceed with the process and agree to be bound by the solutions.

Step 5: Address All Issues

An effective mediator will not address only the major issues. All issues in the dispute and those that can arise when the solution is implemented must be addressed and discussed.

To be sure, any unresolved issues will surface at some future point.

Step 6: Setting Clear Goals

The mediator must know each party’s goals for the outcome and the time beyond the solution. For example: Do the parties want to part ways or continue the relationship under different terms?

All goals must be realistic and achievable.

Step 7: Brainstorming

The decision makers attending the mediation must participate in the brainstorming session. This will enable each party and the mediator to recognize the solutions each party is willing to accept.

The mediator must facilitate the process but not influence it.

Step 8: The Process

It is the mediator’s responsibility to ensure that each party clearly understands the process. An effective mediator will explain the focus of reaching solutions and not emphasize the validity of the arguments.

Step 9: Creativity

The brainstorming session should invite creativity. The creation of workable solutions should be positive and based on equal input.

Step 10: The Mediator Sets the Tone

The parties will be less stressed if the mediator is not stressed. Stress will become evident when the process is not working toward a creative solution for both parties.

The best way to alleviate stress is to recognize when mediation is not the best way to resolve the dispute and act accordingly.

Take Action and Schedule a No-Cost Consultation With a Knowledgeable Los Angeles Business Litigation Lawyer Today

Litigation is based on the merits of an argument. Each party will be in a better position when the focal point of an argument is known. The parties will soon find litigation at times to be contentious. Disputes often resolve sooner when the parties take the time to mediate and broaden their understanding of the other position.

If nothing else, mediation will set the path for litigation.

If you are or will be involved in a business dispute and would like to discuss the mediation process with a highly reputable, professional and experienced Los Angeles business litigation lawyer, please contact Omni Legal Group at 855.433.2226 and for further information visit www.OnmiLegalGroup.com.

Choosing the Perfect Business Name: Key Considerations

Embarking on a new business venture is an exhilarating experience, but before you can make a mark in the marketplace, you need to settle on a business name that encapsulates your brand’s essence. A business name is more than just a label; it’s the first introduction to your brand, a critical aspect of your company’s identity, and a potential catalyst for success. When choosing a name for your business, it’s important to consider several key factors to ensure that your chosen moniker propels your business forward.

Reflecting Your Brand Identity

Your business name should be a mirror to your brand’s identity, offering insight into what your business stands for. It should align with your brand’s core values, products, or services and resonate with the audience you’re trying to reach. Whether it’s professional and straightforward or creative and whimsical, the name sets the stage for all interactions customers have with your brand. Moreover, it needs to be memorable and easy to pronounce to stick in the minds of your customers. A name that reflects your brand’s ethos and mission can be a powerful tool in building a strong brand identity.

Legal Considerations and Trademarking

Before you get too attached to a name, it’s crucial to ensure it’s legally available for use. This means conducting thorough research to avoid infringing on existing trademarks. The last thing you want is legal complications or having to rebrand later down the line. A name that is unique and hasn’t been claimed allows you to trademark and protect your brand identity legally. Additionally, the trademark search process might help you gauge the uniqueness of your name in the industry, potentially steering you clear of a saturated space of similar-sounding competitors.

Marketability and Domain Availability

In today’s digital world, having an online presence is non-negotiable. The availability of a matching domain name is an essential factor to consider. Ideally, your business name should be available as a “.com” domain for credibility and to avoid customer confusion. Moreover, the name should be conducive to marketing and branding efforts. It should work well on different platforms, be SEO-friendly, and adaptable for various marketing collateral. Remember, a good business name extends far beyond the sign above your door—it’s an integral part of your digital and marketing footprint.

Cultural Sensitivity and Global Appeal

If you have aspirations to take your business global, or even if you’re starting locally with a diverse customer base, cultural sensitivity is important. The name should not be offensive or have negative connotations in other languages or cultures. Additionally, a name with universal appeal can pave the way for future expansion, preventing rebranding headaches. It’s wise to test the name among diverse focus groups to ensure it resonates well across different cultures and languages.

Longevity and Scalability

Think long-term when selecting a name. A name that’s too specific might limit business expansion if you decide to diversify your offerings in the future. Consider avoiding names that are too trendy or that may date your business as time passes. Instead, choose a name with the longevity to grow with your company and the scalability to encompass future opportunities. It’s about finding the balance between being specific enough to be meaningful and broad enough to allow for growth.

In summary, choosing a business name is a critical decision that can impact your brand’s perception, legal standing, marketability, cultural appeal, and future growth. Take the time to brainstorm creatively, conduct thorough research, and choose a name that will serve as a strong foundation for your brand’s identity. With these considerations in mind, you’ll be well on your way to selecting a name that will carry your business forward on the path to success.

Have Questions? Schedule a No Obligation Consultation with an Experienced Trademark Attorney in Los Angeles Today
If you have questions about strategies to properly monitor your trademarks, or you want to begin the process of registering a trademark, then it is imperative to work with a reputable and experienced trademark attorney in Los Angeles such as the professionals at the Omni Legal Group. Omni Legal Group represents clients throughout the greater Los Angeles area, including Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Culver City, and many others. For further information or schedule a no obligation consultation, please call Omni Legal Group at 855.433.2226 or visit www.OmniLegalGroup.com to learn more.

6 Questions You Should Ask Your Business Law Attorney

When you find yourself in need of a business law attorney, it’s crucial to choose someone who not only has the right credentials but is also the right fit for your case. Whether you’re facing a contract dispute, starting a new venture, or grappling with intellectual property issues, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of what to expect from your attorney.

Here are six questions you should consider asking during your initial consultation to ensure you make an informed decision.

1) What Kind of Experience Do You Have With Similar Cases?

Experience matters a lot when it comes to legal issues. Make sure to ask your prospective attorney about their track record with cases similar to yours. You’ll want to know how many similar cases they’ve handled and what the outcomes were. Experience in a specific area can often predict a higher likelihood of a successful outcome, so don’t hesitate to dig deep here.

2) What Would Be Your Strategy for My Case?

Once your potential attorney is familiar with the specifics of your situation, ask them about their strategy. Will they opt for aggressive negotiations or aim for a quick settlement? Understanding the approach can give you insight into how they think and what your experience might be like. It can also help you gauge whether their style aligns with your expectations.

3) Are There Any Alternatives to Going to Court?

Legal battles can be costly and time-consuming. Sometimes, alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation or arbitration could be more appropriate and efficient. Ask your attorney if these options could be viable for your case and what the pros and cons might be. Knowing the alternatives can save you both time and money.

4) What Are My Possible Outcomes?

An experienced attorney should be able to outline the potential scenarios you might face. While they can’t predict the future, they can provide a range of possible outcomes based on their experience and understanding of the law. This will not only help you set realistic expectations but also prepare for different eventualities.

5) Who Will Actually Handle My Case?

In many law firms, the person you initially speak to might not be the one handling your case day-to-day. You may be assigned to an associate or paralegal for certain tasks. It’s important to know who will be your main point of contact and who will be working on your case. Make sure you’re comfortable with the arrangement and clarify how often you’ll receive updates.

6) What Is My Role in My Case?

Some clients prefer to be very involved in their cases, while others would rather leave it to the professionals. Your level of involvement could also affect the outcome. Ask your attorney what role they envision for you and what responsibilities you will have. Will you need to gather documents, or perhaps testify in court? Understanding your role can help you prepare for what lies ahead.

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Choosing a business law attorney is a big decision that can significantly impact your case and your future. By asking these six questions, you can gain a clearer understanding of what to expect and make a more informed choice. Always remember, the attorney works for you and should align with your needs and objectives.

Take Action and Schedule a No-Cost Consultation With a Knowledgeable Los Angeles Business Litigation Lawyer Today

California is known for its liberal and progressive protection of individuals. Before 2018, employees agreed to non-compete agreements when appropriate consideration was given in exchange for restrictions on their livelihood. Now, this issue is moot.

AB 747 will broaden the unenforceability of non-compete covenants in the pre- and employment stages. Employers will be further limited in enforcing restrictive covenants and their legal representation of these issues.

If you are an employer and need legal advice on the effects of AB 747 on the current forms of employment and other proprietary contracts, please schedule a consultation with a highly reputable and experienced Los Angeles Business Litigation Lawyer by calling Omni Legal Group at 855.433.2226 or visit www.OmniLegalGroup.com to learn more.

Will a Corporation Really Protect My Personal Assets?

The allure of starting a business often comes with a barrage of questions, and one of the most frequent queries budding entrepreneurs have is, “Will incorporating my business truly safeguard my personal assets?” The answer, while layered, is generally a resounding “yes.” But like most legal structures, the protection provided by a corporation isn’t absolute. Let’s delve into the protective attributes of corporations and their limitations.

A corporation, by definition, is a distinct legal entity separate from its owners (shareholders). This separation is what creates the ‘corporate veil,’ a legal boundary that ordinarily prevents creditors from going after the personal assets of the corporation’s shareholders should the corporation incur liabilities. In simpler terms, if your corporation goes into debt or faces a lawsuit, your personal assets like your home, car, and personal bank accounts are typically protected and cannot be used to settle corporate debts.

However, the strength of this corporate veil depends largely on adherence to corporate formalities. Corporations are required to maintain certain standards, such as holding regular board meetings, keeping detailed minutes of those meetings, and ensuring the separation of personal and corporate finances. Failing to adhere to these standards can lead to ‘piercing the corporate veil,’ a legal action that disregards the separation between the corporation and its shareholders, putting personal assets at risk.

Another factor to consider is personal guarantees. If a business owner personally guarantees a business loan or another obligation, the corporate veil’s protection does not extend to that specific liability. Essentially, the business owner is putting their personal assets on the line as collateral. It’s vital for entrepreneurs to be wary and judicious about providing personal guarantees.

While the corporate structure offers substantial asset protection, it’s not the only option. Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) also provide personal asset protection with more flexibility and less formality than corporations. However, they come with their own set of rules and nuances.

In conclusion, while a corporation does provide a robust shield for personal assets, the protection isn’t impenetrable. The key is to ensure meticulous adherence to corporate formalities, remain informed about the responsibilities and risks, and seek seasoned legal advice when in doubt. With the right steps, business owners can indeed insulate their personal realm from potential corporate liabilities.

If you own a business and need legal advice, please schedule a consultation with a highly reputable and experienced Los Angeles Business Litigation Lawyer by calling Omni Legal Group a t855.433.2226 or visit www.OmniLegalGroup.com to learn more.

What is the difference between a Merger and an Acquisition?

When it comes to the corporate world, the terms “merger” and “acquisition” often float around as buzzwords. But what do they really mean, and how do they differ? Today, let’s break down these complex concepts into digestible chunks.

First off, let’s talk about mergers. Imagine two companies, Company A and Company B, joining forces to create a brand-new entity, Company C. In this case, both A and B cease to exist independently; they’ve merged to create something new. This kind of consolidation usually occurs between companies that are somewhat equal in terms of size, market share, or operational scope. Why merge? Well, the reasons can vary but often include achieving greater market reach, creating cost efficiencies, or combining unique strengths. The big takeaway here is that a merger is like a marriage; it’s a mutual agreement that promises shared control in the new entity.

On the flip side, an acquisition is more like an adoption. Company D decides to buy Company E. Here, D remains as it is, but it absorbs E into its operations. Company E, as an independent entity, ceases to exist. Company D might decide to keep E’s products or services as-is, or they might integrate them into their own offerings. Acquisitions can be friendly or not-so-friendly—yes, we’re talking about those dramatic hostile takeovers you read about in the news.

Now, the legal hoops these companies have to jump through also differ. A merger is typically a more democratic process. It involves a lot of back-and-forths and requires the blessing of the shareholders from both companies. An acquisition, on the other hand, can happen even if Company E (from our example) is not willing to be acquired. Company D just needs to purchase enough shares to take controlling interest, and voilà, the acquisition is complete.

Operationally, the aftermath of these two processes also varies. In a merger, both companies have to figure out how to integrate their cultures, systems, and operations—a monumental task that takes time and strategic planning. After an acquisition, it’s usually the culture of the acquiring company that takes the lead. The transition could be quick but might ruffle a few feathers, especially if the acquisition was not welcomed by the acquired company.

So there you have it! While both mergers and acquisitions aim for consolidation and growth, the route they take to get there is fundamentally different. Mergers are more like corporate marriages, while acquisitions are more akin to adoptions. Each has its own legal, operational, and cultural implications. So, the next time you read about a merger or an acquisition in the news, you’ll know exactly what’s going down in the boardroom. Stay tuned for more insights into the business world!

The Types of Intellectual Property

Intellectual property is an intangible asset of a person or company that creates value. Often, intangible assets can generate more value than tangible assets.

Legal protections exist for intangible assets like patents, copyrights, and trademarks. But what are these legal measures protecting? The lawyers at Omni Legal Group specialize in intellectual property law in the Greater Los Angeles area, and they feel it important to define the types of intellectual property that need protection from use and infringement by others.

The Definition of Intellectual Property

Intellectual property has and creates value and is shown as a line item on a balance sheet under the “Assets” category. Even though extracting a dollar value from an intangible asset is subjective, the value it creates is tangible.

Companies go to great lengths to protect these assets. When the public associates a color to a brand, a logo to a company, or a jingle to a product, these are the basis of a company’s competitive edge for market share. These non-physical assets need protection, as do physical assets.

Intellectual property is created through intellect and skill.

The Types of Intellectual Property

The common types of these non-physical assets are:

trademarks
copyrights
patents
trade secrets
franchises
digital assets

Trademarks

A trademark is the logo, symbol, or design the public associates with a brand or a product. A company’s trademark is exclusive to it and separates its brand from others.

Copyrights

Copyrights protect the artistic creations of musicians, authors, and artists. These creators have the exclusive right to use or duplicate their creations. The copyright holder must authorize any use by others under conditions controlled by a license agreement.

Patents

Patents protect the creations of inventors. The product can be tangible, like a machine, a computer, a smartphone, or software. In addition, the non-physical assets, like technology and the development process, that lead to the invention of a physical asset are also protected by a patent.

Trade Secrets

Trade secrets are closely related to the protections under a patent. Examples are recipes, business models, patterns, or other proprietary information not in the public domain. Trade secrets are the subject of non-disclosure agreements.

Franchises

A franchise is a license agreement granted by a company to third parties to use the trademark, process, and certain other proprietary knowledge for the licensee to operate and provide the products or services under the company’s name. Third-party operators must comply with the company’s policies, procedures, and operations in exchange for the branding and advertising platforms to grow revenue and market share.

This support and access to proprietary knowledge is the consideration for the licensing or royalty fees the operators owe.

Digital Assets

Digital assets are a relatively new category for internet protocol. These are the proprietary codes and algorithms for online content featuring a company’s protected intellectual property.

The Value of Intellectual Property

Copyrights, patents, and trademarks are included as assets on a balance sheet because they have expiration dates. The accounting method of amortization can measure the decrease in value over the useful life of these assets.

Hence, the research and development used to keep these property types relevant and valuable need protections like the physical end product.

The value assigned to intellectual property is subjective even when supported by accounting principles. The value of intellectual property is evidenced by the market, what franchisees and licensees are willing to pay, and the per-share value of the company’s stock.

Want to Learn More About How to Properly Protect Your Intellectual Property? Contact an Experienced Patent Attorney in Los Angeles Today

Creations from ideas, research, and talent are tangible, although only sometimes physical. The end product is real, but the raw materials and the resources that lead to the tangibility of the product must also be protected. The creation itself is static, but the processes that continue to improve and maintain a product’s relevance are valued by the recurring revenue and the company’s price-to-earnings ratio.

If you are an inventor, musician, or author and would like to learn how to properly protect your creations, it is in your best interest to consult with one of our lawyers at Omni Legal Group. Our team of experienced and highly reputable patent attorneys in Los Angeles will work tirelessly to ensure you secure the provisional patent, non-provisional patent, design patent, utility patent, or plant patent application necessary to protect your invention. For further information or to schedule a consultation please contact Omni Legal Group at 855.433.2226 or visit www.OmniLegalGroup.com to learn more.