E-commerce and the Internet have created new ways in which businesses can relate to their customers, suppliers, partners and investors. The Internet's open architecture allows new relationships, channels and ways of doing business among manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, service providers and end-users. These relationships are beginning to challenge the traditional distribution structure that dominated 20th century commerce, sometimes with great success and sometimes with no success. Equally important, information developed by businesses engaged in e-commerce is becoming as important as the products being sold, and in many cases, information has become the product.

In recent years, Goldberg Kohn has developed extensive capabilities in information technology law. We have negotiated software development contracts; outsourcing, licensing, distribution, confidentiality and ASP agreements; and a variety of computer services agreements on behalf of start-ups and traditional companies alike. We currently represent software developers and Web-based companies in securities, tax, employment, executive compensation, regulatory and corporate matters. We advise clients on a variety of electronic communication issues, including litigation, Web site development and operation, intellectual property, and numerous data ownership and privacy issues.

Our lawyers understand the structural changes that are possible in this new world of business relationships and the emerging legal issues governing them. We have watched the Internet bubble form, expand, burst and slowly reform. We have gained our knowledge by working closely with both Web-based and traditional companies that are deploying e-commerce and Internet strategies. We advise clients on a variety of electronic communication issues, on Web site development, on intellectual property issues, on advertising and promotions on the Internet, and on numerous other data ownership, privacy and security issues. We are participating in litigation that is testing the implications of the open architecture of the Internet.

For more information about our Information Technology & E-commerce Group, please contact Jerry Jenkins at 312.201.3902 or via e-mail at gerald.jenkins@goldbergkohn.com.