Protect & Monetize Creativity
Discover how your intangible assets can enhance the long-term enterprise value of your organization
Secure Your Intellectual Property Now
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Extracting Enterprise Value from Organizational Creativity
In 1975 tangible assets (i.e., real property) such as buildings and equipment, cash and bonds, inventory, and land represented 83% of the total value of the companies making up the S&P 500.
From Idea to US Utility Patent - An Overview
Applying for and ultimately receiving a US utility patent can be very worthwhile. A granted US utility patent includes a bundle of property rights.
Patent Checklist
Access the Fishman Stewart patent checklist
About Fishman Stewart
We are intellectual property specialty law firm Fishman Stewart. Our strong bench of savvy IP attorneys possess deep knowledge of IP protection strategies for industries at different stages of market penetration. From emerging and middle market businesses to dominant FORTUNE 100 companies, Fishman Stewart has collectively secured patents, trademarks and copyrights worth billions of dollars for companies like yours.
Because of our industry expertise, we also know that every company – even within the same industry – is unique, with intellectual property assets that need individual consideration as part of a broader IP portfolio. When you entrust Fishman Stewart with protecting your creativity, we become collaborative strategic advisors. Securing, maximizing and monetizing your IP becomes our top priority. We’ll protect and expand your IP portfolio value through patents, trademarks, copyrights, licensing agreements, trade secret strategies and actionable industry intelligence.
View Experts by Interest
IP Experts
Michael D. Fishman
Partner
Michael B. Stewart
Partner
Kameron F. Bonner
Partner
Linda Monge Callaghan
Partner
Julie A. Greenberg
Partner
John P. Guenther
Partner
Barbara L. Mandell
Partner
Paul M. Ratzmann
Partner
Michelle L. Visser
Partner
Ronald W. Citkowski
Of Counsel
Ernie I. Gifford
Of Counsel
Maxwell J. Goss
Of Counsel
Mark J. Lambrecht
Of Counsel
John G. Posa
Of Counsel
Penny L. Prater
Of Counsel
Christopher Wilson
Of Counsel
Gregory M. Bussell
Associate
Norman K. Freda
Associate
Alexander JSW Johnson
Associate
Kristyn C. Webb
Associate
Full-Service IP Provider
Fishman Stewart attorneys are dedicated to the practice of intellectual property law. As strategic advisors to CEOs and senior executives throughout the world, we help maximize the value of our client’s “intellectual capital”. We believe that creativity should be managed in the same way that companies manage their physical capital. While all companies have strategies for maximizing and leveraging their use of physical capital, they may not have a plan for protecting their creativity. Safeguarding the assets of a business in a strategic manner is crucial to defining and driving long-term value.
Casting for Success℠
Extracting Enterprise Value from Organizational Creativity
In 1975 tangible assets (i.e., real property) such as buildings and equipment, cash and bonds, inventory, and land represented 83% of the total value of the companies making up the S&P 500.
You Snooze, You Lose – Identifying and Securing Creativity
Intellectual Property is a product of the mind and human intellect and recognized by our nation’s founders as crucial to the ongoing success of the United States.
Intellectual Property Department Strategy
Intellectual Property (IP) in general encompasses the four major areas of patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets.
IP Experts
Michael D. Fishman
Partner
Michael B. Stewart
Partner
Christopher Wilson
Of Counsel
Chain of Title
When organizations go through mergers, name changes, address changes, asset purchases, or other transactions, the ownership of their intellectual property (IP) often transfers to new hands. This means that the ownership records for their IP registrations and certificates must be updated in the relevant intellectual property offices worldwide to reflect the new owner. This process is known as the chain of title and ensures correct and legal ownership of the IP rights. As with physical property, a failure to timely record a change in the chain of title may result in a complete loss of an IP asset if there is a later transfer that is timely recorded.
Casting for Success℠
Extracting Enterprise Value from Organizational Creativity
In 1975 tangible assets (i.e., real property) such as buildings and equipment, cash and bonds, inventory, and land represented 83% of the total value of the companies making up the S&P 500.
Updating Intellectual Property Chain Of Title
Despite the ever increasing importance of monetizing creativity, many do not appreciate that a break in the chain of ownership of an intellectual property (“IP”) asset can be just as fatal to its value to a potential new owner as the failure to update the chain of ownership following the sale of real estate.
Intellectual Property Security Interests In The U.S.
Many people are familiar with the different types of property that can be the subject of a secured transaction, whether a bank has an interest in someone’s home or a credit agency takes an interest in an individual’s car.
IP Experts
Michael B. Stewart
Partner
Kameron F. Bonner
Partner
Ronald W. Citkowski
Of Counsel
Penny L. Prater
Of Counsel
Chemicals
The chemical industry is a crucial and ever-evolving field that involves researching, developing, and producing diverse substances with countless applications. From pharmaceuticals to agriculture, it drives innovation and enhances our daily lives. Obtaining a patent is essential in this industry as it protects the intellectual property behind new chemical compositions, processes, and technologies. Patents grant inventors exclusive rights to their creations, leading to economic benefits, encouraging more research, and fostering industry growth.
Casting for Success℠
Extracting Enterprise Value from Organizational Creativity
In 1975 tangible assets (i.e., real property) such as buildings and equipment, cash and bonds, inventory, and land represented 83% of the total value of the companies making up the S&P 500.
You Snooze, You Lose – Identifying and Securing Creativity
Intellectual Property is a product of the mind and human intellect and recognized by our nation’s founders as crucial to the ongoing success of the United States.
Intellectual Property Department Strategy
Intellectual Property (IP) in general encompasses the four major areas of patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets.
IP Experts
Michael D. Fishman
Partner
Michael B. Stewart
Partner
Julie A. Greenberg
Partner
Kristyn Webb
Associate
Copyrights
Copyright protection is available for original works of authorship in various forms, including literature, music, drama, choreography, visual arts, architecture, audiovisual works, sound recordings, and computer programs. The copyright owner enjoys exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute copies, create derivatives, and perform or display the work (subject to “Fair Use” rights).
Fixing the expression in a tangible medium creates the copyright, but registration is necessary for enforcing certain rights. To register, one must submit an application and fee to the U.S. Copyright Office, along with a specimen of the work. The timing of registration is crucial, as it grants the owner rights in infringement actions, like attorney fees and certain damages based on the registration date.
Casting for Success℠
Extracting Enterprise Value from Organizational Creativity
In 1975 tangible assets (i.e., real property) such as buildings and equipment, cash and bonds, inventory, and land represented 83% of the total value of the companies making up the S&P 500.
Copyright Checklist
Access the Fishman Stewart copyright checklist
The Different Ways That You Can Protect Your Software
It goes without saying that software can possess quite a bit of value. In fact, for many companies, it is likely that their software is their most valuable asset—even more so than their real estate portfolio.
IP Experts
Michael B. Stewart
Partner
Kameron F. Bonner
Partner
Paul M. Ratzmann
Partner
Mark J. Lambrecht
Of Counsel
John G. Posa
Of Counsel
Gregory M. Bussell
Associate
Norman K. Freda
Associate
Electronics
In the electronics industry, patent protection is crucial to safeguard inventions and gain a competitive edge. Specialized law firms like Fishman Stewart offer guidance, research, patent application preparation, and legal representation. By relying on Fishman Stewart for patent protection, inventors in the electronics industry can gain the peace of mind that their valuable ideas are thoroughly protected, allowing them to focus on further development and market growth.
Casting for Success℠
Extracting Enterprise Value from Organizational Creativity
In 1975 tangible assets (i.e., real property) such as buildings and equipment, cash and bonds, inventory, and land represented 83% of the total value of the companies making up the S&P 500.
You Snooze, You Lose – Identifying and Securing Creativity
Intellectual Property is a product of the mind and human intellect and recognized by our nation’s founders as crucial to the ongoing success of the United States.
Intellectual Property Department Strategy
Intellectual Property (IP) in general encompasses the four major areas of patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets.
IP Experts
Michael B. Stewart
Partner
Kameron F. Bonner
Partner
Paul M. Ratzmann
Partner
Mark J. Lambrecht
Of Counsel
IP Consulting, Transactional, Information Technology and E-Commerce Services:
Fishman Stewart excels in protecting and managing intellectual property (IP) assets in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. With expertise spanning patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and more, they are trusted strategic advisors to CEOs worldwide. One industry benefiting greatly from effective IP protection is information technology (IT), driving innovation and shaping modern society. Fishman Stewart navigates complexities, empowering companies to expand market share, maintain competitiveness, and seize opportunities in the digital landscape. Collaborative efforts secure intellectual capital through strategies like licensing and development agreements, ensuring long-term success in technology and innovation.
Casting for Success℠
Measures To Protect Intellectual Property Rights On Social Media
Having a robust social media presence is a must for modern businesses. It is a fast and easy way to reach hundreds or thousands of people just with the click of a button.
How to Fight Counterfeiters on Amazon
Your brand is everything: an identity, a reputation, and a revenue-generating asset. When your brand suffers, the bottom line suffers too.
The Different Ways That You Can Protect Your Software
Intellectual Property (IP) in general encompasses the four major areas of patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets.
IP Experts
Michael B. Stewart
Partner
John P. Guenther
Partner
Barbara L. Mandell
Partner
Paul M. Ratzmann
Partner
Maxwell J. Goss
Of Counsel
Kristyn C. Webb
Associate
Litigation
Fishman Stewart has a strong track record representing clients nationwide. Their multidisciplinary team handles disputes of any size or complexity, from patent, trademark, and copyright infringement to antitrust issues, unfair competition, and more. With extensive experience before federal courts, governmental agencies, and other relevant bodies, they effectively navigate litigation proceedings. Fishman Stewart also provides alternative dispute resolution options when appropriate, and their attorneys serve as neutral arbitrators and mediators.
Casting for Success℠
Three Commandments for Litigants
So, you landed in a legal dispute. Perhaps you found it necessary to sue a company or an individual. Perhaps someone has filed a lawsuit against you. Or perhaps no one has filed suit yet, but you see the potential for litigation on the horizon.
The Difference Between Mediation And Arbitration
People, including lawyers, frequently conflate arbitration and mediation as interchangeable. If you do that too, you are wrong.
The Use Of Expert Witnesses In Intellectual Property Disputes
At some point during the litigation of intellectual property disputes the parties will need to select experts to educate the judge and/or jury on the various technical/financial/ scientific issues that may arise in such cases.
IP Experts
Michael B. Stewart
Partner
Kameron F. Bonner
Partner
John P. Guenther
Partner
Paul M. Ratzmann
Partner
Earnie I. Gifford
Of Counsel
Mark J. Lambrecht
Of Counsel
Gregory M. Bussell
Associate
Norman K. Freda
Associate
Manufacturing
Fishman Stewart aids manufacturers in protecting inventions through patent applications, ensuring a competitive edge. The firm provides guidance spanning prior art searches, application preparation, and industry-specific insights. Beyond IP protection, they navigate legal challenges, negotiate licenses, and defend against infringement. Manufacturers trust Fishman Stewart to handle their patent applications, allowing them to focus on innovation and market success.
Casting for Success℠
Extracting Enterprise Value from Organizational Creativity
In 1975 tangible assets (i.e., real property) such as buildings and equipment, cash and bonds, inventory, and land represented 83% of the total value of the companies making up the S&P 500.
You Snooze, You Lose – Identifying and Securing Creativity
Intellectual Property is a product of the mind and human intellect and recognized by our nation’s founders as crucial to the ongoing success of the United States.
Intellectual Property Department Strategy
Intellectual Property (IP) in general encompasses the four major areas of patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets.
IP Experts
Michael D. Fishman
Partner
Michael B. Stewart
Partner
Linda Monge Callaghan
Partner
Julie A. Greenberg
Partner
Barbara L. Mandell
Partner
Michelle L. Visser
Partner
Earnie I. Gifford
Of Counsel
Alexander JSW Johnson
Associate
Kristyn C. Webb
Associate
Trademarks
Trademark protection is vital to safeguard words, names, symbols, or logos used in commerce. While actual use grants some protection, trademark registration offers stronger rights and notifies others of the mark’s usage, preventing legal disputes. Fishman Stewart manages all aspects of registration, from searches to ongoing mark management, including infringement monitoring and revenue optimization through licensing. They also facilitate the protection of trademarks globally, ensuring comprehensive protection.
Casting for Success℠
Why Should I Conduct a Trademark Search?
Developing a new brand and launching a new product or line of products are exciting times. In a rush to put goods or services on the market, and come up with the perfect tag line, slogan, or brand name, it is easy to become confused about what type of trademark search you should do—or even skip performing a search altogether.
Trademark And Service Mark Usage
Did you know that trademark or service mark rights can be lost through non-use or misuse? This is an important reason for trademark and service mark owners to be familiar with best practices for proper use of their marks.
Trademark Checklist
Access the Fishman Stewart trademark checklist
IP Experts
Michael D. Fishman
Partner
Michael B. Stewart
Partner
John P. Guenther
Partner
Barbara L. Mandell
Partner
Maxwell J. Goss
Of Counsel
Trade Secrets
Fishman Stewart collaborates with companies in various industries to develop trade secret protection strategies. Trade secrets, like formulas and industrial processes, are valuable information not known to the public. Exclusivity is lost if a trade secret becomes public, so maintaining secrecy is crucial. Proactively protecting trade secrets necessitates employment agreements, licensing arrangements, and other preventive measures. This comprehensive approach ensures the preservation of a company’s competitive advantage.
Casting for Success℠
Trade Secret Checklist
Access the Fishman Stewart trade secret checklist
Building a Case for Trade Secret Misappropriation
A former U.S. Attorney General once said: “There are only two categories of companies affected by trade-secret theft: those that know they’ve been compromised and those that don’t know yet.”
Steps An Organization Should Take To Protect Confidential Information
Confidential information defines organizations and is what sets them apart from their competitors, whether it is business plans, personnel records, trade secrets, patent applications, or consumer research.
Fishman Stewart attorneys are dedicated to the practice of intellectual property law. As strategic advisors to CEOs and senior executives throughout the world, we help maximize the value of our client’s “intellectual capital”.
We believe that creativity should be managed in the same way that companies manage their physical capital. While all companies have strategies for maximizing and leveraging their use of physical capital, they may not have a plan for protecting their creativity. Safeguarding the assets of a business in a strategic manner is crucial to defining and driving long-term value.
Recognition
