Intellectual Property Law
Protecting creative work, brands, inventions, and confidential business information.
Based on 415 reviews • Serving all of Utah
This page is provided for informational purposes. For intellectual property matters requiring representation, contact us to discuss your matter or a referral.
Intellectual property (IP) law protects the fruits of human creativity and innovation — from brand names and logos, to creative works, inventions, and confidential business information. Understanding the types of IP protection available helps businesses and creators make informed decisions about protecting their work.
Trademarks
A trademark protects a word, name, symbol, or logo that distinguishes goods or services in commerce. Federal trademark registration with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) provides nationwide priority and the ability to sue infringers in federal court. Common law trademark rights arise through use, even without registration.
Copyrights
Copyright protects original creative works — writing, music, software, artwork, photography, and other expression fixed in a tangible medium. Copyright arises automatically upon creation, though federal registration (with the U.S. Copyright Office) is required to sue for infringement and is necessary to recover statutory damages and attorney's fees.
Patents
Patents protect inventions and grant the inventor exclusive rights for a limited period (typically 20 years for utility patents). Obtaining a patent requires filing a detailed application with the USPTO, demonstrating that the invention is novel, non-obvious, and useful. Patent prosecution is highly specialized — if you have an invention to protect, consult a registered patent attorney.
Trade Secrets
Trade secrets — confidential formulas, processes, customer lists, and other proprietary information — are protected under both federal law (Defend Trade Secrets Act) and Utah's Trade Secrets Act. Protection requires reasonable steps to keep the information secret. Trade secret misappropriation is a serious business dispute that we handle as part of our litigation practice.
Have an IP Dispute or Question?
For trade secret misappropriation, non-compete enforcement, or other IP-adjacent business disputes, contact Hepworth Legal.
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