Fequently Asked Questions
Trade Secrets
What are the basic filing requirements for filing a copyright application with Library of Congress?
A trade secret is any know-how, formula, process, method, etc., which is not generally known by the public. The basis requirement is that it must be keep secretive. Generally, the person or entity seeking trade secret protection must take reasonable steps to ensure that the trade secret remains a trade secret, e.g. limits access to the trade secret information, has agreements with require employees to not disclose any trade secrets, etc.
Can a Trade Secret be licensed?
A: Yes, it is possible to license rights in a Trade Secret to a third party. A Trade Secret license will typically be limited by a duration of time, e.g., five years, sever years, etc., after which time the three party is free to used the licensed Trade Secret.