This course provides an in-depth exploration of the principles and practices governing patent and trade secret protection. Students will analyze the legal frameworks surrounding both forms of intellectual property, focusing on the requirements for protection, enforcement mechanisms, and the distinctions between patents and trade secrets. Key topics include trade secret misappropriation, confidentiality agreements, and strategies for safeguarding proprietary information. Through case studies and discussions on current issues, students will evaluate the impact of these protections on innovation and competitive advantage. By the end, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of how patents and trade secrets foster economic growth.

CILO-1: Analyze the fundamental principles and framework of patent and trade secret law. CILO-2: Analyze the criteria for patentability and the requirements for trade secret protection. CILO-3: Navigate and draft patent applications and confidentiality agreements effectively. CILO-4: Assess patent and trade secret rights and analyze issues related to infringement and misappropriation. CILO-5: Develop strategies for litigation and enforcement in both patent and trade secret contexts. CILO-6: Evaluate ethical considerations and international frameworks relevant to patent and trade secret practices.