2009 Seattle INTA Conference a Success

May 16-20^th marked the 131^st annual INTA Conference in Seattle, Washington and the first time that Continental Enterprises showcased their catalog of services. In attendance was Darlene Seymour (General Counsel), Brian McGinnis (Associate General Counsel), Denise Mosteller (Director of Licensing), and Lorraine Atencio (Director of Investigations). According to Licensing Director Denise Mosteller, the trip was definitely a success in terms of networking and advertising.

"Attending INTA was a good move on CE's part.  We were able to meet people from all over the world and introduce them to Continental Enterprises."

The issues surrounding brand protection and trademark infringements are global problems. In response to this growing international problem, CE has recently made moves to expand their services to meet the needs of international companies and clients. General Counsel Darlene Seymour was pleased to see not only a growing interest in international brand protection at INTA but was able to advertise CE's international scope.

"There were lots of lawyers looking for investigative services and a huge need for a presence in other countries. While there were a few companies (at INTA) with similar services, CE was the most comprehensive, offering a broad range of services, including licensing and in-house legal assistance.

Licensing Director Denise Mosteller echoed that statement, highlighting CE's cost-efficient model and promising future in international work.

"There were a few companies that canvass websites for infringements, but they did not have in house counsel.  One company in particular has an outside attorney send out their cease and desist letters.  Handling C&D letters in this manner can be very expensive to the client.  CE is able to offer the whole package - consulting, investigations, enforcement, resolution and asset recovery. For so many years, CE was hidden.  We have never advertised our services until recently.   CE developed relationships with attorneys in other countries.  These relationships could be beneficial as CE continues to grow and complete work internationally."

Even though over one hundred years divides the beginnings of INTA and CE, the same principles guide both organizations: to protect and promote the rights of trademark owners, to secure useful legislation and to give aid and encouragement to all efforts for the advancement and observance of trademark rights (www.inta.org).