Intellectual Property

Our IP practice takes a holistic approach to intellectual property creation and is able to help not only in the registration and subsequent management of our clients’ IP, but also assist in developing intellectual property strategies that match with the client’s business goals. Working in conjunction with our network of Japanese patent specialists (“benrishi”), we provide assistance with applying for patent rights, utility model rights, copyrights, trademarks rights, and design rights. 

In addition, we also provide drafting and review services for contracts related to the research and development activities of a client’s business such as development outsourcing contracts and joint development contracts. We also draft and review license contracts for various types of intellectual property rights such as patent license contracts, trademark license contracts, and any other form of assignment agreement

With experience in all major areas of intellectual property litigation, Matsuo & Kosugi confidently represents both IP rights holders and alleged infringers in a variety of IP disputes. Depending on the circumstances, our representation may include: 

• Sending warning letters to infringers and engaging in negotiations to settle the dispute
• Seeking damages or injunctions through the Japanese court system
• Defending against claims of IP infringement
• Preservation procedures related to infringement of patent rights, utility model rights, copyrights, trademark rights, or design rights
• Defending against allegations of breaches of the Unfair Competition Prevention Act or other allegations of unauthorized use of trade secrets
• Working together with Japanese patent specialist (“benrishi”) to achieve favorable results for our client