Intellectual property and other intangible assets are fast becoming the most valuable assets in most businesses. So it is essential to protect your intellectual property - whether protecting a new idea or protecting and maximising existing intellectual property.

Surprisingly, many businesses have not taken the necessary steps to protect their intellectual property which can and does result in adverse exploitation by competitors.

We assist our clients with intellectual property identification and registration of ownership. Further, existing intellectual property such as trade marks, brands, copyright works and patents need constant market monitoring and management. We work with our clients to manage the day-to-day commercial use of their intellectual property including use in advertising, competitions, sponsorships and events. We also assist with all commercial aspects of intellectual property exploitation, including negotiations, licensing and dealings.

Our expertise also extends to undertaking pro-active investigations and routine audits in order to detect intellectual property misuse in a timely manner and take immediate legal protection steps. We have successfully acted for clients in litigation proceedings relating to infringement of patents, trade marks, copyright and designs rights, as well as breaches of confidence and information technology rights.

Stephen's past career as a federal agent in the Australian Federal Police has resulted in an enduring relationship with the Federal Police and Customs. These Government agencies assist in the enforcement of Federal laws that include the confiscation of infringing materials and prosecution of trade mark offences.

Our intellectual property & confidential information services include legal and commercial advice in respect of:

• Advertising & packaging: Protection of packaging, labelling and get-up
• Brand Investigation, Exploitation and Protection
• Business & Corporate names
• Confidential Information & Trade Secrets: Protection of ideas, concepts, formats and brands through confidentiality.
• Copyright collecting societies
• Copyright: Computer software, film, television, music, book publishing, licensing & exploitation
• Digital rights management & dealing
• Dispute Resolution & Litigation
• Internet and Domain Names: Registration, exploitation, disputes and cyber squatting.
• Patents: Licensing, exploitation and infringement.
• Protection of commercial rights through the Trade Practices Act 1974 (C'wlth) and/or the common law action for passing off
• Trade Marks: Registration advice & management, licensing, oppositions, infringement and licensing & exploitation

For further information on our intellectual property & confidential information services, contact our office on (02) 8221 0933 or email us on info@vmsolicitors.com.au