Module 4 - How to Obtain and Protect Your IPRs in the United States
Lesson 1: Introduction
Reading time ~1 minute
As a U.S.-based business, your first concern with respect to intellectual property rights (IPRs) will be how to obtain and protect those rights within the United States. Taking all steps available to maximize protection of IPRs—even those that can exist in the United States without registration—is strongly advised.
This module addresses the basic steps you need to take to obtain and protect the following IPRs in the United States:
- Copyrights
- Trademarks
- Patents
- Trade Secrets
This module also addresses other means of protecting IPRs in the United States, including entering into independent contractor agreements, recording registered trademarks and copyrights with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, protecting your supply chain, and protecting your IPRs at trade fairs. Keep in mind, however, that the laws and procedures pertaining to the acquisition and protection of IPRs in the United States or any other country are complex, and you should consult with an attorney who specializes in that particular type of IPR to assist you in this process.