S. Intellectual Property Transactions Workshop

This experiential workshop is intended as a practical and hands-on overview of various types of IP transactions, from brand licenses and sports licensing arrangements, to artificial intelligence, software and patent license agreements. Each class will be in the context of real-life agreements. Additionally, the class will include three experiential sessions, which will model real-life work of an IP transactions associate at a law firm. While this workshop will discuss important case law that guides best practices, the focus will be on the practical application of the law to substantive issues in IP transactions. Using drafting exercises, contract review, model client counseling sessions, and demonstrations of practical skills, this workshop aims to help students develop and hone the ability to identify, advise on, and resolve issues in IP transactions. We intend to use one example business as a persistent fact pattern throughout the semester, and, following the introduction of the business in the first class, each class thereafter will focus on one type of IP transaction impacting the business.
Familiarity with the fundamentals of IP rights (e.g., trademarks, patents, copyrights, trade secrets) is required. Accordingly, a lecture course in IP is a prerequisite to this workshop. The following courses satisfy the prerequisite: Copyright Law, Information Privacy, Introduction to Intellectual Property Law, Patents, and Unfair Competition & Related Topics in Intellectual Property. We are happy to evaluate another course that covers similar subject matter (or relevant work experience) on a case-by-case basis to determine whether it satisfies the prerequisite.
Grades will be determined principally by evaluation of periodic assignments and a final exam which consists of marking up a hypothetical contract. Quality participation during the seminar may result in a bump to your final grade.