More than ever, technology and life sciences companies rely on strategic alliances as a major means of financing for research and development and for validating technology, expanding product pipelines, commercializing products and penetrating domestic and global markets. Recognizing the increasing significance of these transactions to the growth of our clients, Heller Ehrman has built an impressive team that is widely recognized for the quality and creativity of its work in this area. Our attorneys have handled some of the largest and most innovative life sciences and partnering transactions completed in recent years.

We have over 45 attorneys with sophisticated specialized experience in strategic intellectual property transactions. Our attorneys know the law and dynamics surrounding these complex agreements, and we understand the science and technology behind our clients' products and services. In addition, we work closely with patent professionals and scientific advisors, many of whom hold Ph.D.s and other advanced degrees. Our experience encompasses all aspects of domestic and global technology-related matters, including the commercialization of intellectual property; procurement of technology, data and tools; and manufacturing and business process outsourcing. We represent clients in a range of industries, including information technology, clean technology, entertainment, life sciences, defense, telecom, wireless, electronics, healthcare and publishing.

Facts About Our Practice

• Handle all types of agreements and ventures, including joint venture and strategic partner relationships; distribution, sales, co-marketing and co-promotion agreements; supply and manufacturing agreements; Internet and multimedia license agreements; IT and business process outsourcing agreements; and confidentiality and material transfer agreements.
• Offer In-depth technical understanding of a variety of industries, drawing on the knowledge of more than two dozen attorneys and professionals with advanced degrees in scientific disciplines ranging from biochemistry and immunology to electrical engineering and computer science.
• Possess significant experience developing global IP protection and technology commercialization strategies for a  strong international client base.
• Supported by nationally recognized IP litigation team with extensive experience handling patent issues underlying IP transactions.

Our Capabilities

Strategic IP Transactions

We represent clients in the design and documentation of national and global cross-border and domestic joint ventures, strategic alliances, collaborations, and research and development and other teaming arrangements.

IP Commercialization

We counsel clients on protecting, developing and monetizing their IP assets; in- and out-licensing of technology and content; penetrating foreign markets through value-added resale (VAR), original equipment manufacturing (OEM), distribution; licensing; drug and vaccine manufacturing; clinical development and other commercial arrangements. 

IP Users

We represent clients in the acquisition or in-licensing of technology, data or tools, with a focus on hospitals and other healthcare providers, financial services companies, energy companies, publishers, and wireless and Internet content providers. 

Outsourcing

We structure and negotiate manufacturing and business process outsourcing arrangements.