Protecting Intellectual Property During Divestitures and Acquisitions

Abstract

OVERVIEW:As companies the world over strive to gain product market share through acquisitions and mergers, a strong intellectual property base must back the technology behind the acquired products. Accordingly, when management is considering an acquisition or merger prospect, the intellectual property assets must be scrutinized more thoroughly than ever. In today's litigious environment, this proactive measure is a must. Similarly, a company divesting of product lines must also review its intellectual property assets to assure it does not disconnect from its ongoing business base. Key intellectual property supporting the remaining products must not be lost through the divestiture process.