We handle trade secret disputes in federal and state courts across the country for clients ranging from Fortune 100 companies to startups. Their matters scale from pre-litigation dispute work, temporary restraining orders and preliminary injunctions to trial and appeal. Perkins Coie litigation and trial teams experienced in trade secret matters include 15 members of the American College of Trial Lawyers.

Complex, massive multiparty trade secret litigation is a particular practice strength, and we approach it with a practicality and effectiveness that is distinctive in the trade secret litigation arena. In addition, our litigation teams are bolstered by an E-Discovery Services & Strategy practice known for its depth and technical background. They deliver high-caliber results with efficiency, reliability, accuracy and cost control in a unified and strategic manner.

Our Labor & Employment practice attorneys have substantial experience managing trade secrets in the employment context. They counsel on the preparation and implementation of employment agreements involving trade secrets and other intellectual property, confidentiality agreements, non-compete agreements and internal trade secret protection procedures. Often, trade secret concerns trigger issues in other areas of the law. Our employment attorneys readily join forces with colleagues focused on intellectual property protections, creating a cohesive counsel team serving clients’ key industries and technologies.

Government investigations and white-collar criminal litigation are the focus of our White Collar & Investigations practice attorneys. Many are experienced former government lawyers with the U.S. Department of Justice and the Securities and Exchange Commission. They offer unique and invaluable insights that help corporations and individuals face the scrutiny of law-enforcement authorities in matters involving economic espionage and the theft of trade secrets. When the misappropriation of valuable trade secrets is suspected within an organization, we help companies conduct internal investigations and provide advice on preventing misconduct by employees. (More information on our Criminal Trade Secrets capabilities.)

When offering practical and effective advice to clients on trade secret issues related to business transactions, we assist clients with identifying and defining trade secrets, negotiate trade secret licenses and other transfers, and establish measures and programs for protecting trade secrets and other confidential information.

Our Government Contracts practice attorneys help companies maximize the protection of their trade secrets when doing business with the federal government. We understand the rules and contract clauses that govern trade secret protection under government contracts and the government's rights in computer software and technical data. Our counsel includes preventing the improper release of trade secrets under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) as well as drafting and negotiating licenses and other intellectual property arrangements as part of prime contract, subcontract and teaming agreements.