Intellectual Property (IP) refers to creations of the mind: inventions, literary and artistic works, and symbols, names, images, and designs used in commerce.  You don’t have to own a huge business to face Intellectual Property lawsuits. Here are 5 ways to protect yourself from IP lawsuits.

1 Make sure anything you publish is your own creation, and your Intellectual Property is legal. Know your rights and limits, and never violate any IP law.

2 Your company’s activities and policies should always follow the specific Intellectual Property laws.Educate yourself as to your state’s specific laws and regulations before doing business.

3 Protect your own Intellectual Property against theft both in the United States and in other countries.Register copyrights, trademarks, and patents, or take extreme measures to keep your IP secure.

4 Purchase insurance that covers an Intellectual Property lawsuit. Even though your trademark, ideas and products are your own creation, you still need to protect against a possible IP lawsuit (in order to get coverage, you will be required to prove that you have completed an Intellectual Property search, or have filed a registration for a trademark, service mark, copyright or patent).

5 Hire a lawyer that has experience in Intellectual Property. It would be unwise to try to handle Intellectual Property matters without obtaining legal advice. Most law firms offer a free consultation.