Lawyers and Innovation

Intellectual Property and Social Justice, Lateef Mtima, ed., Edward Elgar, Forthcoming

17 Pages Posted: 2 Aug 2013

See all articles by Rita S. Heimes

Rita S. Heimes

University of Maine - School of Law

Date Written: August 1, 2013

Abstract

Scholars have shown that well-designed legal institutions foster economic development and innovation. Intellectual property (IP) laws, financial markets, robust property and contract laws, and a fair and accessible judiciary encourage strong economies based on creativity, invention and entrepreneurship. But few scholars have analyzed lawyers’ duties and opportunities to promote and facilitate innovation particularly among individuals who generally lack access to sophisticated legal services and complex legal institutions. This article explores how lawyers can help the poor and marginalized individuals of countries like the United States – with its strong IP regime and enforcement system – to reach their personal expressive and inventive potential through access to intellectual property education, property acquisition, rights enforcement, and contractual negotiation. Legal assistance for inventors and creators is a crucial way for attorneys to use their unique professional skills to foster and nurture an innovative society.

Suggested Citation

Heimes, Rita S., Lawyers and Innovation (August 1, 2013). Intellectual Property and Social Justice, Lateef Mtima, ed., Edward Elgar, Forthcoming, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2305191

Rita S. Heimes (Contact Author)

University of Maine - School of Law ( email )

246 Deering Avenue
Portland, ME 04102
United States

HOME PAGE: http://www.lawandinnovation.org

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