Protecting Your Company's Intellectual Property

As a lawyer, I would advise you to take the following steps to protect your company's intellectual property:

1. Conduct an Intellectual Property Audit: It is important to know what intellectual property assets you have and their value to the company. Conducting an intellectual property audit will help you identify all the intellectual property assets of the company including trademarks, patents, copyrights, and trade secrets.
2. File for Trademarks, Patents, and Copyrights: To legally protect your intellectual property, you will need to obtain federally registered trademarks, patents or copyrights. This will provide you with exclusivity and prevent competitors from using your brand, inventions or creations.
3. Secure Confidentiality Agreements: Confidentiality agreements with employees, contractors, and vendors are important to protect trade secrets and confidential information.
4. Monitor Third Party Infringement: Regularly check the internet, attend conferences/trade shows etc., to identify potential infringement of your intellectual property. If you detect any infringement, take immediate action by sending cease and desist letters or seek appropriate legal remedies.
5. Enforce Your Rights: You should be prepared to take legal action if your intellectual property rights are infringed upon.

While legal protection can provide significant protection to your intellectual property, it is important to note that there are limitations and exceptions that may vary by jurisdiction. Additionally, every business' intellectual property is unique and may require different courses of action beyond the ones listed above. It's important frequently to consult an attorney from time to time to help assess and protect your intellectual property assets.