Client Collaborations

Represented executive in a high-profile lawsuit brought by former employer, asserting claims that our client misappropriated trade secrets, violated fiduciary duties, and breached contractual obligations. The case included a six-day evidentiary hearing of the former employer's motion for terminating sanctions based on allegations that our client had knowingly destroyed relevant evidence. The court rejected the allegations, finding that our client was a credible witness who did not violate a duty to preserve evidence, did not act in bad faith, and did not engage in conduct that prejudiced the former employer. As trial approached, the court granted a number of summary judgment and evidentiary motions that significantly limited the scope and value of plaintiffs’ claims. On what would have been the first day of trial, the parties were able to reach an amicable resolution that terminated the case.

Represented Eastern Washington apple wax producer against claims of trade secret misappropriation and breach of previous injunction brought by Indian conglomerate arising out of client’s new wax formulation. After a bench trial in Yakima County Superior Court, court agreed with client that there were no trade secrets to protect, dissolved previous injunction and awarded client its attorneys fees. As stated in the trial court’s decision awarding fees, “Mr. Esler has demonstrated expertise in trade secret litigation . . .”

Represented local manufacturer in pursuing claims of patent infringement and trade secret theft against large multi-national corporation involving chemical process technology. Case resolved with confidential settlement after we defeated numerous motions for summary judgment.

Represented departed executive accused of breaching noncompete and misappropriating trade secrets. Case settled on a confidential basis.

Represented building materials manufacturer in pursuing claims of breach of noncompete and trade secret misappropriation against departing employees. After obtaining injunctive relief, case settled.

Represented local manufacturer in pursuing patent infringement claims regarding light-emitting diode technology against the federal government in the United States Court of Federal Claims pursuant to 28 U.S.C. § 1498.

Represented fishing equipment manufacturer in defending against claims of design patent infringement.

Represented and advised numerous government contractors and bidders on how to best position themselves to protect their confidential information from disclosure by the government.

Represented and advised numerous private companies on how to preserve and protect their trade secrets.