E-Business & Technology Department - Gonzalez Saggio & Harlan LLP

Technology is a powerful business tool: however, each advancement brings new challenges. The firm's E-Business and Information Technology Group understands these challenges and provides sensible advice designed for this rapidly evolving technological and legal landscape. By using an interdisciplinary approach, our attorneys are able to offer comprehensive solutions that transform great ideas into protected, productive assets. Our clients range from small software startups to large, established companies seeking to develop new technologies. We understand that each client has unique needs, and we tailor our services to meet those needs efficiently.

E-Commerce, Internet Law & Litigation

The law surrounding internet transactions continues to evolve. The Group continuously monitors these developments and advises clients regarding issues, such as electronic contracting, domain name registration, domain name dispute resolution under ICANN, digital rights management, computer trespass, new media, broadband distribution, mobile data, online payment systems, licensing of website content, online piracy, open source licensing, security and encryption, publisher liability for defamation, and compliance with laws, including the CAN-SPAM Act, the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, and the Children's Internet Protection Act. We have also litigated disputes involving hardware and software, as well as software compatibility with major corporate systems.

Corporate & Transactional

Our corporate and transactional attorneys counsel clients in the adoption of new technologies, distribution methods, and business structures. We provide advice in the implementation of online contracts, including terms of service, privacy policies, and end user license agreements. We also negotiate and draft commercial contracts vital to technology companies, including manufacturing and distribution agreements, supplier agreements, joint development agreements, advertising agreements, strategic alliances, contracts for professional services, research agreements, data hosting agreements, and take into account a variety of intellectual property concerns in contracts.

Intellectual Property

We assist with the acquisition of trade and service marks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets. We also aid in the protection of these assets through nondisclosure agreements and litigation. Our attorneys also negotiate and prepare licenses to and from third parties to help our clients unlock the full value of these assets.

Employment

Software companies, internet service providers, and other technology companies must pay special attention to their employment policies to protect their competitive advantage. Our attorneys recently drafted a forward-looking employment handbook tailored to fit the needs of a large, privately held software company. In addition, we regularly draft non-competition, confidentiality, and other such agreements to protect our clients' business even when key employees depart.

Data Security & Privacy

Group attorneys advise clients regarding sensitive data security, data privacy, and breach recovery issues. Our attorneys are experienced in drafting and negotiating commercial agreements regarding access, use, and protection of sensitive material. We draft and review privacy policies, address security risks, and ensure compliance with applicable privacy laws and regulations. When breaches do occur, we assist with recovery and implement solutions that restore client and consumer confidence.

Emerging Businesses

Our firm understands the numerous legal and business hurdles faced by entrepreneurs. The E-Business and Information Technology Group provides a comprehensive set of services that focus on the unique needs of technology startups. Whether it is selecting the right legal entity, tailoring key agreements, or protecting your ideas, we take pride in helping entrepreneurs place their new ventures in a position to succeed.