Given increasing global competition, Michigan entrepreneurs have become more pro-active when it comes to protecting their “proprietary interests”. Although federal registrations such as patents, copyrights and trademarks are essential deterrents, they are generally not enough. It’s important that Michigan businesses also use “Proprietary Agreements” to safeguard their business interests when dealing with customers, suppliers and other third parties.
WBC&W helps Michigan businesses protect their company identity, trade secrets, confidential information and customer bases by offering both types of protection:
- Federal Registrations: Copyrights and Trademarks/Servicemarks
- Proprietary Agreements which include:
- Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreements
- Non-Compete Agreements
- Restrictive Covenants
- Supplier Protection Agreements
To be effective, Proprietary Agreements need to be customized to accommodate the specific types of property being protected and address the immediate and apparent threats. They should be used in all “B to B” or “third party dealings” were others may be exposed to proprietary interests which are vital to the businesses success. These dealings include: employment and independent contract agreements, supplier and distributor agreements, joint ventures and even internal arrangements such as shareholder and operating agreements.
Used collectively, these tools will help prevent third parties from attempting to steal vital information or position themselves at the expense of your business.
Our lawyers will evaluate your businesses proprietary interests and implement the best combination of registrations and Proprietary Agreements to help ensure your long term success.
For more information or to set up a free consultation to evaluate the best contractual protections for your business, please contact us at john@witzkeberry.com or (248) 481-4000.
