Trade Secrets
The iRobot Trade Secret Theft Case
While it’s easy to imagine that any trade secret theft case would be dripping with intrigue, the iRobot case sounds like novelist Tom Clancy could have written it.
The case involves one Jameel Ahed, a young engineer once employed by iRobot Corporation – widely known for its Roomba robotic vacuum, and to a lesser extent for its PackBot military tactical robot. After abruptly quitting his job at iRobot where he worked as Read more …
Key Provisions of the Uniform Trade Secrets Act
The Uniform Trade Secrets Act (”UTSA”) is a model law that was originally proposed by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws in 1979. Since then, it has been enacted as law by every state in the U.S. except Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York and Texas. UTSA is being considered by the New Read more …
Guide to Non-Disclosure Agreements
What is a non-disclosure agreement?
A non-disclosure agreement (”NDA”) is one party’s legal promise not to disclose another party’s confidential information to an outside third party. It is a written agreement, often also called a “confidentiality agreement.” Read more …
How to Protect Trade Secrets
State laws afford legal protection for a company’s trade secrets, but there is a requirement you must meet to receive the protection – you have to make reasonable efforts to keep the secret from being discovered.
Trade secrets are also referred to as confidential information. In the event your confidential information is obtained illegally and you Read more …
Choosing Between Patent and Trade Secret Protection
When you become familiar with the laws surrounding patents and trade secrets, the question soon arises, “Which is better – patent protection or trade secret protection?” The answer depends not just on what you’re trying to safeguard, but can also hinge on its economic value and longevity, your financial objectives and the marketplace you’re in. Here’s how to take these issues into account as you evaluate your situation. Read more …
Trade Secrets - Fast FAQs
What is a trade secret?
A trade secret is knowledge or information that:
- Is not generally known
- Gives its owner some economic advantage over competitors specifically because the knowledge or information is not generally known
- Is diligently protected from being disclosed.