Irvine Trade Secret Misappropriation Defense Attorney
Being accused of stealing trade secrets can put your business, career and reputation at risk. These claims often arise when companies hire workers from competitors or when former employees start new businesses. Even if the claims are false, a legal dispute can cost you time, money and valuable business opportunities.
At Hunt Hunt & Winterbottom LLP, our attorneys defend businesses, former employees and executives accused of trade secret misappropriation. Serving Irvine, Fullerton and all of Orange County, our legal team builds strong defenses while keeping your business needs and legal costs in mind.
What Is Trade Secret Misappropriation?
Trade secrets are valuable pieces of business information that a company works to keep private. They may include:
- Customer lists and pricing details
- Software and computer code
- Product designs and manufacturing methods
- Business plans and sales strategies
- Private research and technical data
The California Uniform Trade Secrets Act (CUTSA) and the federal Defend Trade Secrets Act (DTSA) protect trade secrets from improper use or disclosure.
However, not all private business information qualifies as a trade secret. Hiring someone who once worked for a competitor also does not mean a company has broken the law.
How Our Attorneys Defend Against Trade Secret Claims
Irvine has a growing business and technology sector, with many companies located near the University of California, Irvine and the Irvine Spectrum area. As workers move between competing businesses, disputes over private company information can arise.
Our attorneys review the facts, examine the evidence and look for weaknesses in the claims against you. Depending on your case, a defense may involve:
- Challenging the claims: Showing that the information does not qualify for trade secret protection.
- Reviewing the evidence: Examining how the information was obtained and whether it was actually used or shared.
- Examining work agreements: Reviewing contracts and confidentiality rules that may apply.
- Questioning damage claims: Challenging claims about lost profits or other financial harm.
- Opposing court orders: Fighting requests that could limit your ability to work or run your business.
Our lawyers also defend former employees and executives accused of taking company information when leaving a job.
A Focused Defense That Protects Your Interests
Trade secret disputes can move quickly and affect daily business operations. Our attorneys take a direct, practical approach to each case. They work to challenge weak claims, protect your rights and avoid legal work that adds costs without helping your defense.
When possible, our legal team looks for ways to resolve disputes through talks or settlement. When a case must go to court, our attorneys are prepared to fight for your interests.
Contact An Irvine Trade Secret Defense Attorney Today
A trade secret accusation can have serious effects on your business and future. You need an attorney who understands what is at stake and is ready to defend you.
Contact Hunt Hunt & Winterbottom LLP at 949-617-0000 or 215-488-1776 to discuss your case and learn how our attorneys can help protect your business, career and reputation. You can also reach us by filling out our online contact form.