Intellectual property (IP) is the lifeblood of a successful business. A franchisor's IP sets them apart from competitors, builds reputation and drives customer loyalty. That is why IP protection is a top priority for franchisors. As a franchisee, it is crucial to...
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Intellectual Property
What business owners need to know about legal disputes
When you own a business, you may encounter various forms of disputes. Legal conflicts can impact your business interests and professional reputation. It is important to know the types of disputes that fall under commercial litigation. Understanding the different...
The intersection of intellectual property and e-commerce
In the vast world of e-commerce, protecting intellectual property can be a daunting task. Therefore, you should understand some of the key challenges this intersection can cause. Counterfeiting and piracy Counterfeiting and piracy are rampant issues in the e-commerce...
Understanding the legal limits of franchisee advertising
Advertising is a powerful tool for franchisees to attract customers and grow their businesses. However, every franchise owner has to understand and adhere to strict legal limits for self-promotion. Franchise operators must abide by their franchise agreements and...
What are the elements of a franchise agreement?
A franchise agreement outlines the rights and obligations of the franchisor and franchisee to sell or use a company’s intellectual property and system of operations. Fundamentally, a franchise agreement describes how the franchisor and franchisee will work together....
When can you pursue another business with a similar name?
Dealing with copycats can be a major headache for any small business owner. Trademark registration protects your name from replication, but it does not prevent competitors from using a similar name. You may have a stronger case if the violation is obvious, but if not,...
The “why” of intellectual property litigation
Intellectual property allows companies to maintain their edge within the marketplace, build brand recognition and loyalty, provide unique goods and services, innovate new processes and conduct business in novel ways. When intellectual property rights are infringed...
What should be included in a franchise agreement?
When you want to open a franchise, you’ll have to sign a franchise agreement. This is to protect you and the franchisor. It sets expectations and enables you to know your responsibilities. You shouldn’t ever sign a franchise agreement unless you read through the...
Why IP should be a concern for all new business owners
When entrepreneurs start a business, many give little, if any, thought to intellectual property (IP). They may not even realize they have anything that needs to be protected – or that might belong to someone else. Intellectual property typically includes copyrights,...
Does mailing something to yourself grant you a copyright?
Copyright protections are crucial for those who create original works like photographs, essays or songs. For decades, writers have shared what they consider a way to get copyright protection without paying to register it with the United States Copyright Office....