McKeeVoorheesSease

Can you trademark the look of a PB&J sandwich? Smucker's lawsuit against Trader Joe's raises an interesting question about trade dress: When does a product's appearance identify a brand & when is it simply functional? Not every recognizable product feature is legally protectable!

Hiring an independent contractor? Don't assume you automatically own the IP they create. In his latest Filewrapper, MVS attorney Mark Hansing explains why establishing clear ownership rights before work begins is essential. Read more: tinyurl.com/MDHMVS1022

FAQ FRIDAY: What happens to a patent when the inventor passes away? Not to worry - the patent doesn’t die with them! If the inventor owns it, it can become part of their estate and pass to heirs. If it was assigned to a company or other party, ownership generally stays there.

For companies preparing to raise capital, a strong IP portfolio can make a difference. MVS Partner Jill Link explains how involving IP counsel early can help identify issues, strengthen your IP position, and prepare for investor diligence. filewrapper.com/strengthenin…

It’s Cy-Hawk week, and Iowa is seeing red, yellow, black and gold. ❤️💛🖤 No logo required. That’s what happens when a brand becomes instantly recognizable. Strong brands create powerful associations, and those associations are worth protecting. Which colors are you wearing?🏈

🐶 Happy National Dog Day! From Nipper (RCA) to Bullseye (Target) to Drake University’s Griff, dogs can become powerful brand identifiers and even be protected under trademark law. Now we want to meet yours! 📸 If your dog were a brand mascot, what would they represent?

Last week, MVS attorneys joined the 39 North Plant Science Family Reunion. We’re proud to work with companies, universities & researchers throughout the region to protect their IP, support commercialization, and help turn ideas into opportunities for growth and investment.

A federal trademark registration is just the beginning. MVS Attorney Christine Lebron-Dykeman examines a Seventh Circuit decision involving PIZZA PUFF® and shares 3 lessons: choose a strong mark, use it consistently, and monitor the marketplace. tinyurl.com/4d776cah

🎡 When you walk through the fair, what do you see? An IP attorney sees patented ride technology, trademarked brands, copyrighted art and music, trade-secret recipes, and agricultural innovation. IP is everywhere—even at the fair! 🎠🌽

New on MVS Filewrapper: What does Dental Monitoring SAS v. Align Technology, Inc. mean for provisional applications and prior art dates? MVS Patent Agent Monica Nagpal breaks down the Federal Circuit’s decision & its implications for patent practitioners. tinyurl.com/mryekseu