Even the youngest technology companies recognize the need to protect their core ideas. Goodwin Procter attorneys help companies develop IP portfolios that serve specific business objectives. By focusing not only on the technology but on its commercial context, we help our clients direct resources where they can produce clear strategic returns.

Goodwin Procter attorneys have deep knowledge across a range of industries and technologies – from computers and electronics to chemistry, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, lasers and advanced machinery. Many of our attorneys have advanced degrees (including Ph.D.s and M.D.s) and are registered to practice before the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Our attorneys can identify and patent protectable technology. But we go a step further; weighing costs against risks, we help tailor a program of IP protection to a client’s particular objectives.

Our lawyers do not, for example, focus exclusively on curtailing competition. We also work to develop IP portfolios that can:

• Generate licensing revenues. Sometimes it is better to invite competitors in rather than wall them out. Small companies generally cannot service a large market, and licensing relationships can be critical in getting a product out the door and increasing revenue. Our attorneys know how to maximize licensing opportunities.
• Create alliances. A company with effective IP protection has something to offer a potential partner. Also the ability to contribute protected technology to an industry standard can encourage widespread marketplace adoption. Goodwin Procter attorneys know how to build IP portfolios that invite and strengthen alliances.
• Develop Business assets. An IP portfolio that keeps pace with product-development efforts as well as the needs of the wider market represents a key business asset, and will be recognized as such by investors, partners and prospective acquirers. Our attorneys always focus on value and opportunity to build IP capital.
• Ward off litigation. A company brandishing a growing and competitively relevant patent portfolio often presents a less inviting litigation target. We know how to create IP for defensive protection.

To be effective, a patent portfolio must reflect a company’s individual objectives and needs. Goodwin Procter attorneys ensure that IP efforts always serve real business objectives and strategies.

Contacts: Steven J. Frank and Richard I. Samuel