What Can We Do For You?

I strive to provide high quality, high value legal services.  My rates are less than those of large law firms and boutiques because I do not have their expensive overhead.  The savings is passed on to my clients.  The initial consultation is always free. 

TRADEMARK and TRADE DRESS

I offer the full spectrum of trademark law related services: anti-counterfeiting, audits, cancellation actions, clearance, dilution, domain name issues, due diligence, expert witness consulting, investigations, international prosecution and enforcement, infringement, licensing, litigation, oppositions, training, transactional work, UDRP disputes and other matters.  I have a global network of contacts who help clients address problems outside the United States.

COPYRIGHT

I offer basic copyright counseling and registration services, enforcement, licensing, permissions and transactional work.

OTHER INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

I am not a patent prosecution lawyer but I provide "top level" counseling regarding ideas and the options for protecting them.  I have good working relationships with smaller patent firms who provide great value for their clients.  I also counsel clients on trade secret, confidentiality, privacy and related intellectual property issues.

ALCOHOL BEVERAGE LAW AND REGULATION

I consult with clients on distribution agreements and issues, international issues, transactional issues and other industry-related issues.  I frequently work with consultants who are former regulatory officials on a "team" approach to issues because this provides much greater value to clients.

EXPERT WITNESS AND CONSULTING SERVICES

I have served as an expert witness in several matters involving wine labeling, marketing and trademarks.  I have also advised clients on "best practices" for in-house trademark programs.

I have an extensive network of marketing, public relations, regulatory affairs, international, anti-counterfeiting enforcement and survey research contacts that I am happy to share.  And if you need some thoughts on a good lawyer in another discipline I can help with that, too, at no charge.

BILLING AND RETENTION POLICIES

The State Bar of California requires written retention agreements. 

My initial consultation is always free. 

I now require a retainer.  When I started my practice in 2009 I did not, but too many people have taken advantage of my trust so I have to be pragmatic about payment.   

Trademark clearance and prosecution matters are handled on a fixed fee basis acccording to a written fee schedule. Other matters are handled at an hourly rate billed in six minute intervals.  My rates include most general office expenses.