There is no industry that has a more significant impact on the way we live and work than the technology industry. The mainstreaming of cloud computing and machine learning, along with new digital applications in energy, medicine, retail, consumer products, transportation and more are allowing other industries to grow faster through increased efficiency and the development of new business lines. As the technology paradigm shifts from process automation to cognitive functions, there will be significant changes in the legal framework needed to form, protect, and grow your company.
Our clients own, manufacture, license, acquire, and sell technical innovations across the national and global stage. We support you with an array of legal services that map with the trajectory and stage of your enterprise—from formation and financing through protecting intellectual property, managing a workforce, marketing products, and effecting strategic transactions that grow revenue and expand markets.
Software
The software industry operates in a fast-paced environment that presents challenges such as protecting intellectual property, managing data privacy, and complying with evolving regulations. At Stoel Rives, we offer practical and prompt legal solutions informed by deep industry knowledge to help software businesses navigate these complexities and achieve their goals.
We advise a diverse range of clients, including software developers, SaaS providers, cloud companies, and tech startups, as well as businesses in sectors like cloud computing, financial technology (FinTech), and cybersecurity. From startups to publicly traded corporations, we provide tailored legal strategies that address the evolving needs of this dynamic industry.
Our attorneys possess deep expertise in intellectual property protection, data privacy compliance, and emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI). We assist clients at every stage of growth, helping them safeguard their technology, foster innovation, and achieve sustainable success. By addressing regulatory requirements, mitigating risks, and supporting strategic growth, Stoel Rives empowers software companies to compete and achieve their long-term business objectives.
Key Service Areas
- AI, Privacy & Cybersecurity
- Commercial Litigation
- Corporate Partnerships, Joint Ventures & Contracts
- Employment Advice & Counsel
- Intellectual Property & Technology Litigation
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- Non-Compete & Confidentiality Agreements
- Patent Prosecution
- Technology & IP Transactions
- Trademark & Advertising
- Venture Capital, Startups & Emerging Companies
Computer Hardware
Stoel Rives is a trusted legal advisor to companies in the computer hardware industry, providing strategic counsel tailored to the unique demands of this sector. Our multidisciplinary team combines deep technical knowledge with extensive legal expertise to help hardware manufacturers, component suppliers, and technology innovators protect their assets, manage risks, and achieve their business objectives.
We work closely with hardware companies at every stage of growth—from startups seeking venture capital to established enterprises engaged in mergers and acquisitions. Our experience spans key areas such as intellectual property portfolio management, regulatory compliance, and product liability defense, ensuring that clients receive quality services across all aspects of their operations.
Every patent attorney and agent at Stoel Rives holds an advanced degree in science or engineering, spanning fields such as electrical, mechanical, and software engineering. This technical foundation allows us to quickly understand complex technologies and deliver informed legal strategies. Our team provides comprehensive support across all aspects of patent law, from securing patents and managing intellectual property portfolios to navigating intricate licensing agreements, ensuring that clients’ innovations are fully protected and positioned for success.
As Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to drive demand for advanced hardware and becomes increasingly integrated into hardware technologies, Stoel Rives is at the forefront of addressing the unique challenges this intersection creates. From protecting AI-driven innovations to managing data privacy and cybersecurity risks, our attorneys are equipped to provide tailored legal support. We assist clients in navigating complex global privacy regulations, including the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), developing robust cybersecurity policies, and securing intellectual property for AI-based hardware. With a forward-thinking approach, we help clients adapt to the evolving legal landscape, ensuring their technologies are protected and their operations remain compliant.
Key Service Areas
- Commercial Litigation
- Corporate Partnerships, Joint Ventures & Contracts
- Environmental Compliance & Enforcement
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- Patent Prosecution
- Product Liability Defense
- Regulatory Compliance
- Technology & IP Transactions
- Trademark & Advertising
- Venture Capital, Startups & Emerging Companies
Internet of Things (IoT) & Digital Connectivity
The Internet of Things (IoT) has reshaped industries by enabling seamless communication between devices, systems, and people. From healthcare to manufacturing, IoT technologies have fundamentally changed how businesses operate, delivering efficiencies and enabling data-driven decision-making. As companies continue to leverage IoT for innovation and growth, they face ongoing challenges, including data privacy compliance, intellectual property protection, and controlling cybersecurity risks.
At Stoel Rives, we provide strategic legal counsel to IoT innovators, helping them safeguard their technologies, navigate regulatory requirements, and mitigate operational risks. Our clients include hardware manufacturers, software developers, connectivity providers, and platform operators that rely on our expertise to address the complexities of the IoT ecosystem.
Our Privacy and Cybersecurity team offers comprehensive support to IoT businesses facing data protection and security challenges. We assist clients with developing privacy policies, complying with global and domestic data privacy laws (e.g., GDPR, CCPA), managing cybersecurity risks, and responding to incidents. Whether advising on transactional due diligence, conducting privacy impact assessments, or helping to establish compliance programs, our experienced team provides proactive solutions that safeguard digital assets and ensure regulatory compliance in today’s interconnected world.
With deep expertise in the IoT landscape, Stoel Rives helps clients overcome challenges and seize opportunities. Our tailored legal solutions empower businesses to innovate confidently while ensuring their technologies and operations remain protected and compliant.
Key Service Areas
- Intellectual Property Protection
- Patent Prosecution
- Trademark & Advertising
- Data Privacy and Cybersecurity
- Regulatory Compliance
- Commercial Contracts and Licensing
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- Venture Capital, Startups & Emerging Companies
- Technology & IP Transactions
- Litigation and Dispute Resolution
E-commerce
Stoel Rives’ e-commerce team offers comprehensive legal support to businesses navigating the digital marketplace. We counsel clients—from startups to global brands—on brand protection, regulatory compliance, partnerships, and disputes. With a deep understanding of e-commerce challenges, we provide tailored solutions to help clients achieve their goals.
With expertise in intellectual property, consumer privacy, technology transactions, and regulatory compliance, we help clients mitigate risks, seize opportunities, and thrive in a competitive landscape. Our attorneys are also actively involved in local and national industry organizations, staying at the forefront of developments in the e-commerce sector. Through these connections, we provide practical guidance that reflects the latest trends and challenges, fostering valuable and long-term relationships with our clients.
Our multidisciplinary approach, deep industry knowledge, and proactive engagement with regulatory trends set us apart from the competition. We combine legal acumen with practical business insight to help clients anticipate and respond to rapidly evolving digital commerce issues. From advising on cutting-edge technology transactions to managing regulatory challenges, our team delivers innovative solutions tailored to the unique needs of digital commerce.
Key Service Areas
- AI, Privacy & Cybersecurity
- Consumer Protection Compliance
- Corporate Partnerships, Joint Ventures & Contracts
- Intellectual Property & Technology Litigation
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- Product Liability Defense & Litigation
- Supply, Distribution & Sales Agreements
- Technology & IP Transactions
- Trademark & Advertising
- Venture Capital, Startups & Emerging Companies
Biotechnology
At Stoel Rives, we work with clients across a broad range of biotechnology sectors, including medical devices, biopharmaceuticals, neurotechnology, and analytical tools. Our clients are innovators in their fields, advancing groundbreaking technologies such as bioelectronics, protein therapeutics, vaccines, and autoimmune disease therapies.
We advise biotechnology companies, research institutions, and healthcare organizations that are developing a wide array of technologies. Examples of client work include drug delivery systems, ophthalmology devices, antimicrobial coatings and polymers, diagnostic tools, and software solutions to improve healthcare delivery. By providing tailored legal strategies, we help clients navigate a wide range of legal complexities, including intellectual property, venture financing, technology transactions, and regulatory compliance. Stoel Rives has a proven track record of delivering results for clients in overcoming industry-specific challenges.
In addition to the provision of legal services, Stoel Rives fosters innovation within the biotechnology ecosystem. We actively partner with technology organizations and higher education institutions, many of which provide funding, development, and incubation programs for biotechnology startups. Through these partnerships, we contribute to the growth of a thriving and collaborative biotechnology community.
Key Service Areas
- Commercial Litigation
- Corporate Partnerships, Joint Ventures & Contracts
- Environmental Compliance & Enforcement
- Environmental Permitting
- Intellectual Property & Technology Litigation
- Mergers & Acquisitions
- Patent Prosecution
- Real Estate Transactions & Development
- Technology & IP Transactions
- Venture Capital, Startups & Emerging Companies
Experience
Software
- Represented venture capital-backed Hubb, Inc., a provider of video conference and event management software, in its acquisition by Intrado DM Holdings, Inc., a portfolio company of Apollo Global Management, Inc.
- Represented The Learning Internet, Inc., an educational technology company specializing in digital literacy services, in its acquisition via merger by an investment firm focused on education technology, workforce development, and knowledge services.
- Represented Limble, LLC, a modern Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) software provider, in conversion from an LLC to a Delaware corporation, redemption of partial shareholder interests, and a preferred stock investment.
- Defended healthcare software company in a lawsuit brought by a former employee alleging breach of contract, tortious interference with contract, and tortious interference with prospective economic advantage. Successfully removed the case to federal court and secured dismissal of the tortious interference with economic advantage claim.
- Representation of computer-based training provider in the development and distribution of a SaaS-based learning management system.
- Represented private equity-backed UK software company in its acquisition of a software business based in the United States and Canada.
- Represented ToolBelt, Inc., an online contractor network based in Vancouver, WA, in Series Seed-2 Preferred Stock financing.
Computer Hardware
- Defended retail security and technology company in a patent infringement and trade secrets case filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.
- Represented hardware company in the creation of software program to encourage the development of mobile applications compatible with the company’s mobile phone accessory.
- Secured insurance compensation for a major electronics company for losses sustained when a typhoon in Thailand disrupted the global supply chain for computer chips.
Internet of Things (IoT) & Digital Connectivity
- Represented community engagement technology provider in its Series A preferred stock financing, including new investments from Sorenson Capital and Kickstart Seed Fund, along with the conversion of pre- and post-money SAFEs.
- Represented venture capital-backed IOTAS, Inc. in its acquisition by leading IoT-as-a-Service smart apartment platform ADT.
- Represented LinkedIn, a professional networking website, in a consumer class action alleging violations of the UTPA and related claims arising from an automatic renewal program. Secured dismissal after two rounds of motions, leading to voluntary dismissal by the plaintiff.
- Represented a community engagement technology provider in its sale to a virtual events and member experience platform.
- Representation of Wi-Fi technology services company in enforcement of trade secret rights against former employee.
E-commerce
- Represented iVinci Partners, LLC d/b/a VisitPay in its $300 million merger acquisition by R1 RCM, Inc. VisitPay offers a suite of SaaS-based products designed to improve healthcare providers’ ability to collect amounts owed by individual patients and the overall financial experience for patients. R1 offers revenue cycle management services to hospitals and other healthcare providers.
- Representation of healthcare technology company in negotiating and documenting numerous SaaS licenses.
- Advised healthcare software developer in structuring and documenting reseller agreement with large national enterprise.
- Representation of healthcare software company in Series B raise among existing and strategic investors.
Biotechnology
- Represented emerging growth biotechnology company in multiple preferred stock and note financing rounds.
- Represented a global medical device company in two-week arbitration in which plaintiffs sought a multimillion-dollar recovery on their claims of breach of contract and tortious interference, then defeated subsequent motion to set aside arbitration award in federal court and represented client before the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.
- Represented Monsanto Corporation in product liability class action litigation which alleges that Monsanto failed to prevent its genetically engineered wheat from mixing with the general supply, which caused significant disruptions in the export market for wheat in the Pacific Northwest and other areas.
- Representation of bioscience company in negotiating and drafting sponsored research agreement with internationally recognized research institution.
- Representation of bioscience companies in negotiating and drafting master service agreements relating to clinical trial support services and the development and commercialization of companion diagnostics.
