Trademark
Sonnenschein trademark lawyers work with clients across the globe to address all facets of trademark clearance, prosecution and enforcement, helping clients to secure and strengthen their brands worldwide. Drawing on vast experience and domestic and international resources, we work efficiently, collaboratively and creatively with clients to develop and protect trademarks of all types and to defend our clients' rights and uses when necessary.
Protection
In addition to trademark clearance and registration, we collaborate with our clients to create and implement policing programs, and also work directly with clients' distributors to review the varied ways infringement can take place so that they can guard against violations. Our approach to protecting clients' assets begins long before a formal complaint is filed. When necessary, we also protect our clients' valuable trademarks, trade dress or Internet domain names in court, in the Patent and Trademark Office or the offices in other jurisdictions (The International Trade Commission or, in domain name proceedings, under the UDRP (Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy)).
When appropriate, we help clients prepare cease and desist letters, and lead or facilitate negotiations with violators to reach informal resolutions if appropriate. We have initiated or defended — and successfully concluded — a host of administrative and court proceedings to protect our clients' assets. When necessary, we draw upon our national cadre of experienced litigators to pursue infringers and counterfeiters in federal court.
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Counseling
Our clients enjoy our comprehensive trademark service. We provide clearance for and register trademarks and service marks for names, logos and designs of traditional products and services, and also address trademark issues related to the Internet and cutting edge communication technology. To that end, our lawyers conduct initial screening searches as well as review full searches of trademark availability; prepare opinion letters which support or contest applications; and counsel clients on nuances concerning use and notice. In addition, through counseling clients in the acquisition, transfer and licensing of strategic marks, we help our clients build and manage trademark portfolios that create ongoing value for their businesses.
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Prosecution
Our Intellectual Property & Technology Group prosecutes (meaning prepare and file) a wide variety of trademark and service mark applications with the United States Patent and Trademark Office and supervise registration on a worldwide basis. Our sophisticated computer database lets our attorneys and experienced paralegals track clients' trademark holdings and keep abreast of deadlines for appeals and renewals. Where necessary, we handle opposition and cancellation procedures before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board of the United States Patent & Trademark Office.
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Transactions
Franchising and licensing trademarks are very common, but also fairly complex. Our professionals handle both on a regular basis, as well as protecting marks in mergers and acquisitions, asset sales, outsourcing arrangements, and joint ventures. We also have assisted many clients in using their intellectual property to serve as collateral to secure major loans to fund their growing businesses. In keeping with a trademark group of our size, we also negotiate and finalize a broad range of contracts and agreements for our client, including those in established areas such as merchandising, product placement, non-compete clauses, distribution, and manufacturing rights, as well as newer fields such as Internet distribution and marketing.
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International Representation
Our trademark practice is global. We manage the registration of marks in countries around the world, as well as represent clients in opposition proceedings, third-party disputes and assignments of rights negotiations. Through our network of associates — local practitioners everywhere — we combine our familiarity with our clients' needs to assure compliance with local law.
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Domain Names
Domain names and web addresses have a special currency as each day our clients leverage the power and reach of the World Wide Web and Internet for global users. But with immediacy comes complexity and controversy. Sonnenschein's deep expertise in the acquisition, protection and resolution of disputes related to domain names is based on critical skills that distinguish our Intellectual Property practice from many others.
Sonnenschein attorneys were at the forefront of the development of domain name registration and regulation. We have been instrumental in addressing cybersquatting and using the UDRP (Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy) and ICANN proceedings to efficiently solve domain name disputes, and also serve as UDRP panelists through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). As the Internet continues to evolve, we help clients understand how new regulations and developments could affect them. We regularly address issues surrounding affiliate networks, spam, security and privacy. Whether your concern relates to rights afforded under the Anti-Cybersquatting Consumer Protection Act or how the UDRP or other domain name systems could impact your business, we can guide you.
Navigating the law of cyberspace is never easy. Whatever your question or concern, we can help.
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