Profile
Protecting Innovation in the Heart of the Plaza
Intellectual Property Center (The IP Center) is a premier boutique law firm in Kansas City, Missouri, dedicated exclusively to the protection and commercialization of human ingenuity. Founded by Arthur K. Shaffer, a seasoned attorney with a background in business and engineering, the firm stands as a fortress for inventors, entrepreneurs, and artists who need to secure their competitive edge. Unlike general practice firms that dabble in various fields, the Intellectual Property Center focuses entirely on Patent, Trademark, and Copyright law. This specialized focus ensures that clients receive counsel that is not only legally sound but also technically proficient and commercially viable. The firm’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that an idea is only as valuable as the protection surrounding it, and they work tirelessly to turn intangible concepts into tangible assets.
Comprehensive IP Strategies
The firm offers a full spectrum of services designed to guide a concept from the drawing board to the marketplace:
- Patent Prosecution: Conducting rigorous prior art searches and drafting robust patent applications (utility, design, and plant) to protect novel inventions across various industries, from mechanical engineering to software.
- Trademark Registration: assisting businesses in selecting strong, distinct brand names and navigating the registration process with the USPTO to prevent brand dilution and infringement.
- Copyright Protection: Securing rights for authors, musicians, software developers, and artists, ensuring their creative works remain their own.
- Trade Secrets: Advising companies on how to protect confidential business information, formulas, and processes that provide a competitive advantage but cannot be patented.
- Licensing and Litigation: Negotiating licensing agreements to monetize IP and representing clients in enforcement actions to stop unauthorized use of their property.
Business-Minded Legal Counsel
Arthur Shaffer is not just a lawyer; he is an entrepreneur who understands the risks and rewards of business. He holds a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) in addition to his law degree and engineering background. This multidisciplinary expertise allows the firm to offer "Intellectual Property Law for Business People." They don’t just tell you if you can patent something; they help you analyze whether you should, based on market potential and ROI. The firm is deeply integrated into the Kansas City startup ecosystem, frequently mentoring new founders. If you are looking to find a lawyer who speaks the languages of law, technology, and business fluently, the Intellectual Property Center is the ideal partner for your venture.
Premier Plaza Location
The firm is headquartered in the Plaza Corporate Centre on West 47th Street. Located in the iconic Country Club Plaza district, the office is surrounded by Spanish-inspired architecture and fountains, offering an inspiring environment for creative clients.
Specializing In
Patent Prosecution, Trademark Licensing, Trade Secrets, Software Patents
Address & Location
The office is located at 605 W 47th St, Suite 350, within the Plaza Corporate Centre. This prestigious building is situated in the Country Club Plaza, directly across from the InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza. It is nestled between Jefferson Street and Pennsylvania Avenue.
Building Location
The Plaza Corporate Centre is a mid-rise professional office building featuring a classic brick exterior that complements the Plaza’s Spanish Seville architecture. The building offers a professional lobby and is home to various financial and legal firms.
Suite Access
Suite 350 is located on the 3rd floor. Clients should enter through the main glass doors on the south side of the building (facing 47th Street) or from the parking garage, and take the elevators to the third level. The suite is clearly identified with the firm’s branding.
Parking Details
There is an attached parking garage for the building, as well as ample free parking garages throughout the Country Club Plaza district. Street parking is also available but can be competitive during peak shopping hours.
Public Transit
The office is well-served by RideKC. The Main Street MAX stops just a few blocks away at 47th & Main. Several other routes serve the Plaza transit hub, making the office accessible from all parts of the metro.
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