Frequently Asked Questions
Clarity in counsel. We provide direct answers to the most common inquiries regarding intellectual property, litigation, and regulatory compliance.
IP Litigation
Patent infringement occurs when a party manufactures, uses, sells, or offers for sale a patented invention without authorization from the patent holder. In the tech sector, this often involves complex software algorithms, hardware architecture, or semiconductor processes.
Thorne Law employs a rigorous multi-stage analysis:
- Claim Construction: Determining the precise scope of the patent claims.
- Literal Infringement: Identifying if the accused product matches every element of a claim.
- Equivalents: Assessing if the product performs substantially the same function in substantially the same way.
While every case is unique, contested IP litigation commonly spans 18 months or more from the initial filing through trial. However, many cases reach settlement during the evidence-gathering phase or after key preliminary rulings. Our firm prioritizes strategic efficiency to minimize the burden on your business operations.
Tech Licensing
Common pitfalls include poorly defined usage metrics, inadequate data security warranties, and lack of clarity around IP ownership for custom developments. We ensure that our clients' agreements provide robust protections for trade secrets while maintaining the flexibility needed for rapid scaling.
"A license is only as strong as its termination clause." — Julianne Thorne
Yes. We represent global tech firms in navigating jurisdictional complexities, including export controls, international tax treaty implications, and localized data residency requirements.
Privacy Law
Compliance is not just a regulatory requirement; it is a prerequisite for venture capital investment and enterprise partnerships. We help startups implement "Privacy by Design" from day one to avoid costly retrofits.
Firm & Fees
Fee arrangements depend on the nature of the matter and are agreed in writing before work begins. Options include fixed fees for defined projects and hourly billing for litigation. There is no charge for the initial 30-minute intake session.
Bespoke Legal Strategy
Every legal challenge requires a unique architecture. We don't just answer questions; we build solutions.
Still have questions?
Legal matters are rarely straightforward. Contact us today for a confidential consultation with Julianne Thorne.