Patent

Patents allow individuals and businesses to convert a unique invention into a marketable, profitable asset. However, the process of obtaining, maintaining, protecting and enforcing patents in the United States and abroad can be long and complex.

Seyfarth Shaw’s experienced patent attorneys have the broad experience and in-depth knowledge to help clients review ideas and products, evaluate patentability issues, prepare and manage patent applications, identify potential infringements, and enforce patent rights. All of our work points to a single goal: helping businesses turn the fruits of their creativity into profitable, successful tools — today, and in the future.

Transactions and Counseling

On behalf of a wide range of businesses, institutions and other organizations, Seyfarth Shaw’s intellectual property attorneys:

• Review inventions and products for patentability and potential infringement. 
• Prepare and prosecute patent applications before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. 
• Draft and negotiate patent licenses, technology development, confidentiality and employment agreements. 
• Obtain and enforce foreign patent rights. 
• Integrate patents with other forms of intellectual property protection. 
• Develop and deliver patent training programs. 
• Provide counsel on patent-related aspects of acquisitions, including due diligence and negotiation of asset purchase agreements. 
• Conduct patent portfolio audits. 
• Prepare opinions regarding patent infringement, invalidity and enforceability issues.

Litigation

When patent-related disputes arise, we prosecute and defend domestic and foreign businesses in:

• Patent infringement actions, in the United States and before the International Trade Commission. 
• Interferences, before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and in federal courts. 
• Patent licensing disputes, in state and federal courts.