Bart Lazar Published in Intellectual Property Today "Preparation Key to Enforcement at Trade Shows"

Bart Lazar's article, "Preparation Key to Enforcement at Trade Shows," was published in the August 2008 issue of Intellectual Property Today. In his article, Bart discusses the intellectual property obstacles and proposed solutions surrounding the enforcement of trade shows. As he explains, "Just as there is no one approach to any enforcement program, there is no 'one size, fits all' solution for investigating trade shows and conferences and conducting an enforcement action."

The first steps necessary to prepare for enforcement at a trade show are "having the technical ability and knowledge to identify couterfeit product, having good relationships with customers and employees so that you will receive leads as to counterfeiting activities and having the resources available to investigate."  It is vital to be prepared by creating a plan of action, developing relationships with local law enforcement and securing legal counsel. As Bart concludes, "By thinking ahead and preparing, an IP owner can take steps to clear trade shows of counterfeiters—thereby protecting all of the legitimate businesses that are buying and selling genuine products at the show."