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20 Things You Need To Know About Software Patents

On July 31, 1790, Samuel Hopkins was issued the first patent for a process of making potash, an ingredient used in fertilizer. President George Washington signed the patent. Since that day more than 6 million patents have been issued. I saw some potash/fertilizer the other day I need to tell you about. I don't watch much TV, but I do enjoy the show Shark Tank. For me, it looks like a lot of fun to be on the panel. I have tremendous... ❯❯❯

An Odd Antitrust Suit Over A Legal Monopoly

The idea behind a patent is to give the owner a legalized monopoly to encourage innovation. Patents are limited to 20 years, after which the invention enters the public domain and can be freely copied. Inventors thus have incentive to create new and better stuff, since they will profit off the monopoly long enough to make the effort worthwhile, but not so long they can rely on one invention indefinitely. No industry takes this model... ❯❯❯

Which Patent Application Form Is Best for You?

Provisional and non-provisional applications, administered by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO), are two options for people wishing to protect their inventions. The provisional application has a lower price point which makes it the more economically attractive option for a first patent filing in the U.S., while providing parity between U.S. and foreign applicants under the GATT Uruguay Round Agreements. What Does a... ❯❯❯

Know the Rules of Timeshare Buying and Selling Before Purchasing It

When you are about to purchase a timeshare property, you need to be extra careful to not make it a decision you might regret later. Before buying a property, you should do some personal research and make a checklist of questions related to timeshare that will help you get deep information on the subject. Although, you will primarily receive information on resort details, costs involved and other exchange systems; you should carefully... ❯❯❯

Real Estate Disclosure Laws

These laws legally force the seller of a home to disclose to the potential buyer any serious defects of the property. The laws were created to help protect the buyer from any defects that were not noticed until they closed on the house and become the owners. Many times it is hard to enforce real estate disclose laws because what is considered serious defects may be open to interpretation. Because of this, the laws are constantly... ❯❯❯

Seeking the Advice of a Land Law Expert

Picture this scenario: after months of careful consideration and feasibility studies, you have finally decided to develop and build a commercial establishment on that piece of land you've inherited from your parents. However, a relative you didn't know you had is contesting your ownership of the land, thereby, throwing a wrench into your carefully laid out plans. What should you do? In this situation, it's best to consult someone who... ❯❯❯

What Are the Fire Safety Requirements for Landlords?

If you are a landlord you will have legal obligations and duties with regard to fire safety and the protection of your properties and the people who live in them. It is important that you apprise yourself of these duties and obligations and ensure complete compliance with the legislation and regulations as ignorance of the law is not a defence. The three main pieces of legislation which cover this area of law are: • The Housing Act... ❯❯❯

Occupational Health and Safety Industry Best Practices

The primary objective of the Occupational Health and Safety Act is to ensure that safety at work is achievable in every organization big or small. By complying with this act, you can address issues that may pose danger to your employees, well before any untoward incidents occur. Workplace inspections serve a critical role in fulfilling this objective and in maintaining a safe, productive work environment where your business can... ❯❯❯

Injury by Accident V. Specific Traumatic Incident

There are generally two requirements for an employee who is injured at work, to qualify for Workers' Compensation: (1) the employee must suffer by accident; and (2) the injury must arise out of and in the course of employment. As a general rule, employees must suffer an injury by accident in order to give rise to a claim under the Workers' Compensation laws. The term "accident" has been interpreted as an "unlooked for and untoward... ❯❯❯

Workers' Compensation: How to Ensure You Are Getting the Benefits You Deserve

If you are injured at your place of employment as the result of an accident that prevents you from returning, then you are entitled to workers' compensation. The system is put into place to cover medical costs and protect employees who can no longer earn an income because of injuries they sustain while working. Like most government systems there is a high rejection rate, in part to save money and also because of the many people who... ❯❯❯

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