Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox Introduces IP and Human Rights Pro Bono Practice

WASHINGTON, March 21, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C. (SKGF), an intellectual property law firm in Washington, DC, announced today the formal launch of its Intellectual Property and Human Rights Pro Bono Practice.  The practice is the first of its kind and is singularly focused on the interplay of intellectual property principles and human rights.  While the common understanding of human rights refers to Civil or Political Rights (e.g., freedom of speech and assembly), SKGF's pro bono efforts focus on protecting, transferring and enforcing intellectual property rights as an example of Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ESCRs). 

"While intellectual property law frequently promotes humanitarian technological development – medicines and shelter for example – the current system does not fulfill its maximum potential in areas of underdevelopment or poverty," said Dr. Jorge A. Goldstein, SKGF founding director and chair of the IP and Human Rights Pro Bono Practice.  "The job of a human rights-conscious IP lawyer is to work within the traditional IP system to assure that its benefits are realized to full potential for everyone in the world, especially the poor and disenfranchised.  Our program is designed to develop and support the growth of human rights-conscious IP attorneys."

As an example of protecting ESCRs, SKGF sees potential in areas such as:

• Improving fair access to patented technological developments in impoverished areas of the world;
• Patenting and leveraging indigenous knowledge, such as in the use of medicinal plants; and
• Using other IP rights, such as trademarks or licenses, to assist disenfranchised groups.

"Giving back has always been an important part of our culture," added Michael B. Ray, SKGF managing director.  "We now find ourselves in a unique position to make an impact on the IP law profession in a more universal way by focusing on the connection between IP and human rights." 

To learn more, visit http://www.skgf.com/wecare.

Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C. - Strategists and Advisors specializing in the protection, transfer and enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights.  Founded in 1978 and based in Washington, DC, the firm has over 140 patent attorneys, agents and technical specialists representing a broad range of clients, including emerging and established companies, venture capital firms, universities and select individuals.

SOURCE Sterne, Kessler, Goldstein & Fox P.L.L.C.