Traverse Internet Law Federal Court Report: December, 2010 - Trade Secret Violation Lawsuits

Traverse Internet Law Disclaimer

The facts are unproven allegations of the Plaintiff and all commentary is based upon the allegations, the truthfulness and accuracy of which are likely in dispute.


ART OF LIVING FOUNDATION v. DOES 1-10
NORTHERN DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA (OAKLAND)
4:10-CV-05022
FILED: 11/9/2010

Using trade secret information of a previous employer is a growing problem because most employees do not understand what information is, or is not, trade secret information. It is not absolutely necessary that the information have the words “trade secret” written on the documentation. And there are ongoing debates between attorneys as to what is a trade secret. Be very careful with information that you acquire that could be seen as being of a confidential nature. And if you have an employee who leaves with confidential information it is worthwhile to have your attorney evaluate the nature of the information if it is important to you.

The Plaintiff is an international and humanitarian organization based in Bangalore, India. Former student-teachers have published alleged trade secret information on the web including training guides, continuation manuals, and teacher notes that are allegedly trade secret information of the Plaintiff.

Plaintiff alleges copyright infringement, vicarious copyright infringement, contributory copyright infringement, misappropriation of trade secrets, defamation, and trade libel. Plaintiff requests preliminary and permanent injunctive relief, actual damages, treble damages, compensatory damages, costs and attorneys’ fees. Traverse Internet Law Cross-Reference Number 1458.