As business owners, we often get so engrossed in our day-to-day operations that we overlook a crucial aspect of our business: intellectual property (IP). Anthony Verna III, managing partner of Verna Law, emphasizes the importance of protecting this vital asset. Located in Westchester County, just north of New York City, Verna Law specializes in intellectual property and advertising law, offering full-service support, from due diligence to litigation.

The Importance of Due Diligence in IP

Verna highlights the initial step of any IP process: due diligence. It’s vital to research and understand what’s already out there before registering a patent, trademark, or copyright. This step ensures your business idea is truly unique and protected from potential infringements.

Navigating the Complexities of Advertising Law

In the realm of advertising law, Verna Law assists businesses in contract reviews, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, and drafting sweepstakes and promotion rules. This is particularly important as each state, territory, and even Washington D.C., have their own set of laws regarding sweepstakes and promotions. Verna Law’s expertise helps businesses navigate these complexities, ensuring they avoid investigations or fines from state attorney generals for non-compliance.

The Critical One-Year Window for Patent Filing

Verna stresses a crucial point often overlooked by entrepreneurs: the one-year window for filing a patent. Once a product is on the market or publicly disclosed, you have only one year to file a patent. After this period, patenting becomes impossible, even if the product is novel and non-obvious. This one-year rule aligns the U.S. more closely with international standards, emphasizing the importance of being the first to file.

Choosing the Right IP Attorney

When selecting an IP attorney, Verna advises considering three key factors: personal rapport, specialized expertise, and cost-effectiveness. It’s essential to work with someone who understands your business and with whom you can build a trusting relationship. Additionally, the attorney’s technical expertise should align with your specific needs, and their rates should be reasonable, especially for startups and small businesses.

Intellectual Property: More Than Just Legal Compliance

Intellectual property isn’t just about legal compliance; it’s a strategic business asset. Protecting your IP means safeguarding the very essence of what makes your business unique and competitive. As established business owners, it’s imperative to recognize the value of IP and the need for expert guidance in this complex field. With professionals like Anthony Verna and his team, you can ensure that your innovations, creative works, and brand identity are well-protected, allowing you to focus on growing your business with peace of mind.

WATCH THE VIDEO INTERVIEW WITH IP ATTORNEY ANTHONY VERNA III

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