3 Famous IP Disputes You’ve Probably Never Heard Of (But Probably Should Have)

3 Famous IP Disputes You’ve Probably Never Heard Of (But Probably Should Have)

What's famous to an IP attorney might not be well-known to the general public. There are cases that we are familiar with because they serve as great examples or set wide-ranging precedents for the rights of IP holders. 

Here are three famous cases we think you should know about. 

What Shark Tank Can Teach You About IP Protection

Lessons from the Tank: What Shark Tank Can Teach You About IP Protection

It was the kind of public exposure that most entrepreneurs can only dream of. First, Emma Cohen's company, Final Straw, took off on Kickstarter, ultimately raising $1.6 million on the crowdfunding site. Then, she landed a coveted chance to present her reusable, collapsible straw on ABC's Shark Tank. Two groups of impressed Sharks made her an offer. 

That's when things started to go wrong. Very wrong.

Having Disrupted Online Shopping, Amazon Turns Its Sights to IP

Having Disrupted Online Shopping, Amazon Turns Its Sights to IP

In terms of trademark protections, Amazon built a great fortress with its Brand Registry. However, the company's latest foray into the IP process, IP Accelerator, may just have blown a hole in its walls. 

The Right Team

Having been involved in a start-up as an engineer and having worked closely with start-ups as an IP attorney since 2006, I’ve come to realize there are four “pillars” that determine whether a startup will ultimately be successful: Capital, Idea, Team, and Timing.

Hashtags, Memes, and Emojis: The Landscape of #IP on Social Media

The internet and social media offer incredible marketing opportunities for businesses, but proceed with caution to avoid legal landmines! Here are a few tips for navigating potential IP issues with memes, hashtags, and emojis.

Software Patents - “That’s Where All The Action Is”

Software Patents – “That’s Where All The Action Is”

After graduating from engineering school, I remember speaking to my grandfather, who had worked as a chemical engineer for GE for his entire career after WWII.

Is Your Startup Making These Mistakes With Your IP?

When new companies are moving forward with a product at a rapid pace, some of the last things on their minds are details like patents, inventorship, and other intellectual property matters.

Eminem, Meet the Supreme Court of the United States

Eminem, Meet the Supreme Court of the United States

Eminem Sues Spotify!  At least that’s what one might take away from headlines regarding a copyright case that could find its way to the Supreme Court next year.