Whose idea is it? Company sues ex-employee; former employee's unwritten idea to update computer codes is focus of current litigation

Article Abstract:

Litigation between DSC Communications Corp and former employee Evan Brown was pending as of Oct 1997. The case concerns a method invented by Brown to update computer codes and make them usable on current systems, which could save businesses millions of dollars. This is not a typical trade secret litigation since Brown never revealed the particulars of his invention. Since he made no written notes on the subject, an agreement signed on employment with DSC granting the company rights to any inventions having to do with company business would seem to grant DSC the rights to Brown's thoughts.

Police Protection, Trade Secrets, Inventions, Intellectual property, Texas, Works made for hire doctrine (Copyright)

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Oversight can curb discovery costs; in-house scrutiny can lead to streamlining the litigation process and reducing expenses

Article Abstract:

Discovery costs and especially depositions can often be minimized with careful preparation and close attention to the actual utility of many procedures. Depositions can often be conducted by telephone, an increasingly attractive option as visual telephony spreads, or in writing. Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 29 is especially useful in easing restrictions on depositions. Objections to minor errors often produce few benefits compared to substantial costs. Some court-reporting services offer ways to cut costs or increase efficiency.

Depositions, Discovery (Law)

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Adopting strategies for trade secret litigation; counsel should know not only the value of data allegedly stolen, but the resentment behind the claim

Article Abstract:

Trade secret disputes are growing in number and intensity, and counsel should be prepared with a plan to act for either plaintiff or defendant. Three aspects color such disputes: personal motivations, different business objectives between plaintiff and defendant, and high business costs. The plaintiff's counsel should begin investigating well before discovery begins, but then seek expedited discovery, while the defendant should slow discovery and explore forms of alternative dispute resolution but plan an aggressive defense.

Pre-trial procedure, Pretrial procedure

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