LibGuides: Intellectual Property Research Guide: Overview

Intro to U.S. Intellectual Property Research

United States intellectual property law comprises three distinct fields: copyright; trademark; and patent law. It protects creations of the human intellect, such as music, literature, scientific discoveries, and inventions. This area of law helps businesses and entrepreneurs develop and refine their products, protects their rights to sell and use their inventions, and allows them to research their competitors' activities. We recommend that you begin your research with secondary sources, such as treatises, legal encyclopedias, and law journal articles.

Introduction to U.S. Intellectual Property Law Research

Intellectual Property (IP) law in the United States protects the rights of creators and innovators by granting exclusive legal rights to their inventions, artistic works, brand identities, and proprietary information. These rights are designed to foster innovation and creativity while balancing public access and fair use.

The core areas of U.S. IP law include:

Patent Law – Covers inventions and processes that are novel, useful, and non-obvious.
Copyright Law – Protects original works of authorship, including literature, music, and software.
Trademark Law – Safeguards brand identifiers such as names, logos, and slogans.
Trade Secret Law – Shields confidential business information that provides a competitive advantage.

At UC Law SF, students may also engage with IP law in a real-world context through the Startup Legal Garage, where they collaborate with Bay Area startups under the guidance of experienced attorneys. This hands-on experience provides valuable insight into how IP law intersects with business strategy and innovation in the startup ecosystem.

This research guide is designed to support your academic and practical exploration of U.S. IP law. It includes:

Study Aids to help you master key concepts and prepare for exams.
In-Depth Secondary Sources such as treatises, practice guides, and scholarly commentary.
Primary Sources including statutes, regulations, and landmark cases.
Online Databases for accessing filings, legal analysis, and IP-related news.
Links to Other Research Guides for further exploration of specialized IP topics.

Whether you're preparing for class, conducting research, or working with a startup client, this guide will help you navigate the dynamic and complex field of intellectual property law.