Founders and their startups are typically at the forefront of ever-evolving fields, from space exploration and satellites to life-saving medical devices and medicines. Safeguarding intellectual property is critical for startup…
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/ Business Organizations, Intellectual Property, Science, Computers, & Technology
Congratulations on incorporating your startup! Now that your business is officially on the map, it is time to take the next crucial steps to ensure a solid foundation for growth and success. This checklist provides new…
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/ Business Organizations, Securities Law, Taxation
Private company clients frequently ask us about granting compensatory stock options to their founders, employees and other service providers, including board members, consultants and advisors. Options and other equity awards can…
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/ Business Organizations, Securities Law, Taxation
Crowdfunding emerged as a popular and innovative method of fundraising for startups, providing a platform for entrepreneurs to raise capital through soliciting relatively small individual investments or contributions from a…
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/ Business Organizations, Finance & Banking
This is the second of a four-part series focusing on estate planning fundamentals for founders. This article will address an important topic for owners of Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) as defined in Section 1202 of the…
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/ Business Organizations, Taxation, Wills, Trusts, & Estate Planning
Opening a retirement savings plan for employees (including founders!) is often a low-priority issue for startups and small businesses, but several states, including California, are trying to change that. In 2016, the Department…
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/ Business Organizations, Finance & Banking, Labor & Employment Law
A core concept in trademark law that every startup founder should understand is “likelihood of confusion.” This legal standard plays a pivotal role in both trademark registration and enforcement. It’s essential for protecting…
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/ Business Organizations, Commercial Law & Contracts, Intellectual Property
Not everything can be protected as a trademark. Certain types of material are specifically excluded from trademark protection under U.S. law. As a startup founder, it’s crucial to understand what cannot be registered as a…
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/ Business Organizations, Commercial Law & Contracts, Intellectual Property
In trademark law, the concept of distinctiveness is central to protecting your brand and ensuring it stands out in the marketplace. Understanding the levels of trademark distinctiveness can help startup founders make informed…
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/ Business Organizations, Commercial Law & Contracts, Intellectual Property
For startup founders, navigating the complexities of trademark law is essential for protecting your brand. An important aspect of this process involves understanding opposition and cancellation proceedings. These are formal…
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/ Business Organizations, Commercial Law & Contracts, Intellectual Property
As a startup founder, you’re often faced with numerous decisions that impact the future of your business. One such decision is how to approach trademark applications. A crucial component of this process is selecting the…
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/ Business Organizations, Commercial Law & Contracts, Intellectual Property
Startup founders looking to protect their brands need to understand the concept of “use in commerce” to successfully register their trademarks with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This article will break down what…
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/ Business Organizations, Commercial Law & Contracts, Intellectual Property
When applying to register a trademark, a critical component you will encounter is selecting a “basis” for the application. Selecting the correct basis is crucial for ensuring that your application is processed smoothly and…
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/ Business Organizations, Commercial Law & Contracts, Intellectual Property
As you dive into the world of trademarks to protect your brand, one element you will encounter during the registration process with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is the “specimen of use.” Understanding this term…
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/ Business Organizations, Commercial Law & Contracts, Intellectual Property
When launching a startup, it’s crucial to establish a strong brand identity, which often includes selecting a unique name, logo and other identifiers that distinguish your products or services in the marketplace. One key aspect…
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/ Business Organizations, Commercial Law & Contracts, Intellectual Property
