Asked in Intellectual Property for California

Q: Are there any legal cases related to an unpatented idea being stolen?

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1 Lawyer Answer
Brandon Baum
Brandon Baum
Answered
  • Silicon Valley, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Sure, it is usually in the trade secret context. One of the more notorious trade secret matters in recent memory was Avant!'s misappropriation of Cadence's trade secrets. After many years of litigation, 7 Avant! executives pleaded no contest to felony trade secret misappropriation and the company was ordered to pay $182 million in restitution to victim Cadence. A Google search of "Cadence Avant!" will turn up many cases and references.

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