The Courts are reining in the improper assertion of “standard-essential patents” in patent infringement lawsuits. Standard-essential patents are those “industry standard” patents that cover basic functions that all technological devices have to perform to operate seamlessly with one another. In Apple v Samsung, the International Trade Commission uncharacteristically found in favor of Samsung.


As the knowledge-based economy expands, the companies and individuals that possess intangible intellectual assets, such as intellectual property, will need specialized expertise, strategic thinking, legal experience, and the wisdom necessary to manage intellectual assets.