Intellectual property is often one of a business’s most valuable assets. Whether it is a new invention, a company logo, or original creative content, protecting intellectual property helps ensure that others cannot profit from your hard work and innovation.
While registering patents, trademarks, and copyrights provides important legal protections, infringement can still occur. Understanding the differences between these types of infringement is essential for protecting your rights.
Patent Infringement
Patent infringement occurs when someone makes, uses, sells, offers to sell, or imports a patented invention without the patent owner’s permission. A patent generally grants exclusive rights to an inventor for up to 20 years from the filing date. If another party uses the patented invention without authorization, the patent holder may have grounds for legal action.
Trademark Infringement
Trademark infringement involves the unauthorized use of a name, logo, slogan, symbol, or other mark that is likely to cause confusion among consumers. Trademarks help businesses establish brand recognition and distinguish their products or services from competitors. When a similar or identical mark is used in connection with related goods or services, consumers may mistakenly believe there is an association between the businesses.
Copyright Infringement
Copyright infringement occurs when someone reproduces, distributes, displays, performs, or creates derivative works from copyrighted material without permission. Copyright protection applies to original creative works, including books, articles, photographs, artwork, music, videos, software, and website content. In many cases, copyright protection lasts for the life of the author plus 70 years.
Protecting Your Intellectual Property Rights
Patent, trademark, and copyright disputes can be complex and often require prompt action to prevent further damage. Failing to address infringement may impact a company’s reputation, competitive advantage, and revenue.
At Kenneth I. Gross & Associates, we help individuals and businesses understand their intellectual property rights and explore legal options when infringement occurs. If you believe your intellectual property has been misused or copied without authorization, contact our office at (213) 627-0218 to discuss your situation and learn how we may be able to help protect your rights.