Universities Get Creative to Avoid Patent Litigation Pitfalls

Universities upset at businesses that rip off their patented technologies often face a tough decision about whether to spend money on litigation that could be going to fund education.

Fortunately, schools are finding there are other options.

Some are partnering with businesses on research and development to avoid patent fights. Others are seeking litigation financing to fund high-stakes battles. And still others are eyeing litigation in overseas venues that are more favorable than U.S. courts.

Universities are turning to such creative approaches to pursue licensing fees for their patents because litigation in the U.S. is rife with financial and legal ...