Olive & Olive PA - Durham, NC
Established in 1957, Olive and Olive, P.A. is North Carolina premier intellectual property law firm, headquartered in downtown Durham. Led by managing partner Susan Freya Olive, the historic firm provides sophisticated counsel in domestic and international patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, technology licensing, and federal intellectual property litigation.
Seven Decades of Intellectual Property Leadership in Durham
For nearly seventy years, Olive and Olive, P.A. has stood as a pioneer in intellectual property law across North Carolina. Founded in 1957 by engineer B.B. Olive, the firm built a reputation for technical precision. Led by managing partner Susan Freya Olive, the practice was the state first IP firm with a female partner. Located at 500 Memorial Street in Durham, the firm counsels inventors, universities, startups, and corporations. When you need to hire an attorney who understands engineering and federal jurisprudence, Olive and Olive delivers unparalleled advocacy.
Patent Prosecution and Scientific Innovation
Transforming scientific discoveries into enforceable patent rights requires deep technical insight. As premier patent attorneys, Olive and Olive assists researchers and enterprises in safeguarding innovations before the USPTO and internationally. Core technical areas include:
- Biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical diagnostic apparatus
- Computer software, hardware, electronics, and robotics
- Chemical formulations, plastics, and industrial machinery
- Agricultural methods and specialized mechanical components
Comprehensive Trademark Prosecution and Brand Protection
A distinctive brand name and commercial identity are irreplaceable assets that require proactive defense. Acting as skilled trademark lawyers, the firm manages comprehensive trademark portfolios for academic institutions, creative organizations, and international enterprises. Attorneys conduct thorough clearance evaluations, prosecute state and federal registrations, and navigate international filings through the Madrid Protocol. The firm also represents clients in adversarial proceedings before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board.
Copyright Counseling, Trade Secrets, and Commercial Contracts
Protecting creative expressions and confidential data is vital in the digital era. Functioning as accomplished copyright lawyers and contract lawyers, the team secures copyright registrations for software code, publications, and digital media. The firm also drafts licensing agreements, trade secret protocols, and nondisclosure covenants to commercialize innovations securely.
High-Stakes Intellectual Property and Business Litigation
When infringement disputes arise or commercial competitors misappropriate protected property, decisive courtroom action is necessary. Operating as seasoned business litigation lawyers and financial and ip lawyers, the firm represents clients before federal district courts, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals, and the Federal Circuit. When corporate clients need an attorney urgently to seek preliminary injunctions or defend against infringement claims, Olive and Olive delivers strategic trial advocacy. Indeed, Susan Freya Olive frequently serves as lead counsel for other legal practitioners facing complex intellectual property conflicts.
Recognized Industry Accolades and Honors
Olive and Olive has earned extensive recognition across the legal profession. Managing partner Susan Freya Olive is an inductee into the Business North Carolina Legal Elite Hall of Fame and holds a Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating. The practice is continuously featured in North Carolina Super Lawyers and Best Law Firms, reflecting peer acknowledgment of their legal mastery and ethical standards.
Consult with Olive and Olive in Durham Today
When you need to find a lawyer with the technical background and trial experience required to safeguard your intellectual property, partner with Olive and Olive, P.A. Call +1 919-683-5514 today to schedule a consultation with a lawyer and safeguard your proprietary innovations.
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Location & Access
Primary Address
Situated in the historic Downtown Durham neighborhood, close to the vibrant Brightleaf Square area.
Building Location
This is a prominent 7-story commercial office building, historically renovated from the old Durham Dairy Distribution Company. The property is easily located near the famous 11-foot-8 Bridge and is adjacent to the It's a Southern Thing restaurant.
Parking Details
Convenient surface parking is available nearby, with both free and paid public options.
Public Transit
Served by GoDurham Route 11 (Durham Station); nearest stop is at Main St at Gregson St (Brightleaf Square).
Accessibility / Suite Access
Enter through the main entrance of the historic building. The office is located on the ground floor and is fully wheelchair accessible.