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Vicky Smolyar
Senior Trademark & Copyright Counsel
Hofstra University School of Law
J.D.
Hofstra University
B.B.A., Business Law
Vicky's Superpower: Comprehensive Brand & IP Protection
Vicky has extensive experience advising entrepreneurs and emerging companies on both intellectual property and general corporate matters. Since 2015, she has built a practice centered on helping startups and SMBs navigate the complex legal landscape of building and scaling businesses. Her dual expertise in trademark and copyright law, combined with her corporate law background, allows her to provide comprehensive legal guidance to entrepreneurs across multiple industries.
Vicky's intellectual property practice focuses on trademark and copyright prosecution, trade secret protection, brand protection strategies, and IP monetization for growing companies. Her corporate practice encompasses business formation and compliance, contract drafting and negotiation, marketing and advertising compliance, and general business counsel. Recognizing that successful entrepreneurs need comprehensive legal planning, Vicky also advises clients on estate planning and business succession strategies, helping business owners protect their personal and business assets while ensuring seamless transitions for future generations. Drawing from her experience as a serial entrepreneur, Vicky brings a unique business perspective to her legal practice, understanding both the legal and practical challenges her clients face.
Before establishing her practice, Vicky worked in securities litigation at Bank of New York Mellon and Merrill Lynch, where she gained valuable experience in complex financial litigation. She also worked in the venture capital space and has operated her own businesses, providing her with firsthand insight into the entrepreneurial journey.
Vicky is a member of the Houston Bar Association and the Woodlands Bar Association. She earned her B.B.A. in Business Law from Hofstra University and her law degree with honors and a concentration in Business Law from Hofstra University School of Law in 2012. She is licensed to practice in New York, New Jersey, and Texas.
Experience
- Senior Trademark Counsel
Mousilli Legal Group - Securities Litigation
Bank of New York Mellon - Securities Litigation
Merrill Lynch
Specialties
- Trademark & Copyright Prosecution
- Trade Secret Protection
- Brand Protection Strategies
- IP Monetization
- Business Formation & Compliance
- Contract Drafting & Negotiation
- Marketing & Advertising Compliance
- Estate Planning & Business Succession
Latest Insights by Vicky
View Vicky's ArticlesNavigating the Complexities of International Trademark Registration
Expanding globally? Trademark rights are territorial. Learn how to protect your brand internationally using the Madrid Protocol and direct filings.
Vicky SmolyarBulletproofing Your Brand's Trademark
Protecting your brand identity is crucial. Learn the essential steps to secure and maintain a robust trademark portfolio for your growing business.
Vicky SmolyarThe Ultimate Guide to Trade Secret Protection for Tech Companies
Not everything can or should be patented. Learn how to identify and protect your company's most valuable trade secrets from misappropriation.
Vicky SmolyarBusiness Formation 101: Choosing the Right Entity for Your Startup
LLC or C-Corp? The entity you choose at formation has lasting implications for taxes, liability, and fundraising. We break down the pros and cons of each.
Vicky SmolyarMarketing Compliance: Avoiding Costly Advertising Mistakes
Innovative marketing campaigns can drive growth, but they must comply with FTC regulations. Learn how to navigate advertising law and avoid deceptive practices.
Vicky SmolyarHow to Monetize Your IP: Strategies for Growing Businesses
Your intellectual property isn't just a defensive asset; it's a revenue generator. Explore strategies for licensing and monetizing your patents, trademarks, and copyrights.
Vicky SmolyarContract Negotiation: 5 Red Flags to Watch Out For
Don't sign on the dotted line until you've reviewed these critical contract clauses. Learn how to spot red flags and negotiate better terms for your business.
Vicky SmolyarCopyrights vs. Trademarks: What Startups Need to Know
Understanding the difference between copyrights and trademarks is essential for protecting your intellectual property. We break down the key distinctions and when to use each.
Vicky SmolyarMeet the Rest of the Team
Our dedicated professionals committed to protecting your innovations.
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