Many businesses in Florida and across the company keep a close watch on business interests, especially those that operate in innovative fields. Should a company feel as though an employee or business partner is using inside information unlawfully, trade secret disputes may ensue. Alphabet has recently filed a lawsuit against Uber, in which it accuses the other party of misappropriating numerous trade secrets.

In its initial claim, Alphabet accused Uber of mishandling as many as 120 trade secrets. However, a judge ordered the company to reduce the number to eight, and has even ruled that the expert opinion of a key witness wasn't reliable. These secrets are reportedly in relation to the innovative technology behind self-driving vehicles. The company asserts that an engineer stole inside information prior to selling his company to Uber.

Although the engineer is no longer with Uber, Alphabet claims to have uncovered new information that proves the company continues to use these secrets in its own endeavors. However, Uber is contesting the allegations, and states the other company has already dropped patent claims on some of the alleged secrets. Although one of its experts has reportedly been excluded from the case, Alphabet continues to pursue compensation for monetary losses.

When a company believes that sensitive information has been misused or stolen by another party, it may choose to pursue legal recourse, but the process can be complex. When facing trade secret disputes, a company could benefit from speaking with an attorney for assistance in navigating the process. An attorney in Florida can address the client's situation and provide advice on the best course of action to take moving forward.

Source: recode.net, “Alphabet has lost another trade secret claim in its lawsuit against Uber“, Johana Bhuiyan, Nov. 3, 2017