Intellectual Property Center - Kansas City, MO

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.