In addition to patents, copyrights, and trademarks, the field of intellectual property includes a number of protections based primarily on state law, such as unfair competition and trade secret protection. Actions under those laws allow a business to recover damages for what are generally categorized as business torts. Mayer Brown has experience both seeking such recovery and defending such actions.

The practice of intellectual property law often overlaps with several other related practice areas. The claims of patent misuse and antitrust violations, for example, are often brought together. Intellectual Property issues also arise frequently in employment contracts, specifically with respect to assignment clauses and confidentiality restrictions. Finally, issues in media law often involve distinct intellectual property issues. Mayer Brown has experience in each of these related areas. See the Corporate Primer for Intellectual Property for more information.