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Jul 04

CHESTER pllc Declares Independence

By Innovation, Internet / eCommerce, News

In keeping with the spirit of July 4th, Dallas-based business & innovation law firm CHESTER pllc is “declaring independence … from paper.”

The Dallas-based global business & innovation law firm of CHESTER pllc is pleased to announce that it will begin to exclusively (to the extent possible) use e-signatures starting July 4, 2013.   These e-signatures will be used on all firm documents.

For the past several months, the firm has been beta testing various services, and chose July 4th to formally adopt an e-signature based system.

The firm has been low-paper since its inception, and has evaluated new paperless technologies once they have become available and been proven reliable.  Hosted servers, scan and shred policies, paperless invoicing, and other similar paper-free options have been adopted over the years.  Using e-signatures will further transform the way the company handles documents that need to be signed and move it one step closer to become a truly “paperless” law firm.

Jim Chester, CHESTER pllc’s CEO and founding principal, says, “The practice of law is constantly changing, and we are proud to be pioneers in that regard. We seek to offer an alternative to large, expensive firms by providing quality legal services for the core legal issues faced by technology and innovation-based clients at a reasonable cost. Adopting state-of-the-art technology maximizes the quality of service that we can provide to our clients and helps us cut costs, which translate into savings that are passed onto our clients.”

“Going paperless helps us reduce costs, space, and our environmental footprint, while creating a document control system that is reliable, searchable, and scalable” said the attorney.

In addition to its adoption of cutting-edge paper-reduction technologies, CHESTER pllc also utilizes cloud-based servers, hosted phone service, AppleTV based presentation screens that can beam wirelessly from Macbook Airs. Breaking from traditional law practices, CHESTER pllc keeps all client records in a digital format, which makes files easy to sort and search, and ultimately maximizes efficiency.

This step towards becoming a ‘paperless’ law firm reinforces the CHESTER pllc mantra of being ‘innovative legal counsel for innovative companies,” Chester adds.

CHESTER pllc is a Dallas, Texas law firm providing comprehensive legal services to innovation-based companies doing business in the US, around the world, and on the web.  Its mission (and passion) is helping entrepreneurs and emerging companies solve problems and protect their interests. CHESTER pllc delivers value by providing business-savvy, cost-effective solutions to legal challenges.  The firm offers a wide array of business legal solutions, such as business entity formation (LLCs, corporations, etc.), trademarks and other intellectual property, technology transactions, contracts, ecommerce and dispute resolution.  Additional information about the firm and its attorneys may be found at www.chester-law.com.

May 07

Sophilia Hsu Speaks at NEC Corporation of America’s International Trade Compliance Conference

By News

Sophilia Hsu, associate attorney in the Dallas-based global business & technology law firm of CHESTER pllc, recently presented on protecting intellectual property at the NEC Corporation of America’s International Trade Compliance Conference, which was held at NEC’s offices in Irving, Texas.

The title of the presentation was, “Protecting Intellectual Property in International Markets.” Hsu addressed the key elements of intellectual property asset protection. Participants and speakers of the conference came from across the county and the world. Other speakers at the event included Shin Takahashi, President and CEO of NEC Corporation of America; Gerry Kenney, Senior Vice President and General Counsel of NEC Corporation of America; and Mark Herlach, partner at Sutherland Asbill & Brennan LLP.

NEC Corporation of America was established in 2006 and combined operations of NEC America, NEC Solutions America and NEC USA. NEC Corporation of America is a leading technology provider of strategic IT and communications solutions. Serving carrier, small-to-medium business and large enterprise clients across multiple vertical industries, NEC Corporation of America provides its customers greater access to a rich portfolio of technology and professional services, enhanced opportunities and competitive solutions.

Of the event, Hsu reports, “The protection of intellectual property plays an integral role in the success of individual businesses and the U.S. economy. This is an important topic and I am glad that NEC Corporation of America is addressing this issue.”

About CHESTER pllc

CHESTER pllc is a Dallas, Texas law firm providing comprehensive legal services to innovation-based companies doing business in the US, around the world, and on the web.  Its mission (and passion) is helping entrepreneurs and emerging companies solve problems and protect their interests. CHESTER pllc delivers value by providing business-savvy, cost-effective solutions to legal challenges.  The firm offers a wide array of business legal solutions, such as business entity formation (LLCs, corporations, etc.), trademarks and other intellectual property, technology transactions, domestic and international contracts, and e-commerce matters.  Additional information about the firm and its attorneys may be found at www.chester-law.com.

Mar 05

Jim Chester Speaks to Dallas Association of Young Lawyers About M&A Due Diligence

By News

J. F. (Jim) Chester, founding partner in the Dallas-based global business & technology law firm of CHESTER pllc, recently presented on due diligence issues and strategies to an audience of young attorneys at an event sponsored by the Dallas Association of Young Lawyers (DAYL).

Chester co-presented with Stephanie Gause of Bell Nunnally & Martin LLP, who will discuss general M&A due diligence and then focus on specific problems and considerations for IP due diligence in mergers and acquisitions. The title of the presentation, which was held at the Belo Mansion, the Dallas Bar Association’s headquarters in Dallas, Texas, was: “What Every Young Lawyer Should Know About M&A Due Diligence.”

Jim Chester, founder and managing partner in CHESTER pllc, also teaches courses on International Trade Law and International Business Transactions at Baylor University Law School.

Of the event, Chester reports, “I was honored to participate in this DAYL program.  Understanding IP due diligence in M&A transactions is very important, especially for young attorneys. It’s great that the DAYL provides programs such as this one to allow young attorneys to learn from a range of more experienced practitioners.”

CHESTER pllc is a Dallas, Texas law firm providing comprehensive legal services to innovation-based companies doing business in the US, around the world, and on the web.  Its mission (and passion) is helping entrepreneurs and emerging companies solve problems and protect their interests. CHESTER pllc delivers value by providing business-savvy, cost-effective solutions to legal challenges.  The firm offers a wide array of business legal solutions, such as business entity formation (LLCs, corporations, etc.), trademarks and other intellectual property, technology transactions, contracts, ecommerce and dispute resolution.  Additional information about the firm and its attorneys may be found at www.chester-law.com

Mar 05

Jim Chester and Sophilia Hsu Publish Article in Currents: International Trade Law Journal

By News

CHESTER pllc is pleased to announce that founding partner J. F. (Jim) Chester and associate Sophilia Hsu have authored an article that is being published in the upcoming Summer 2013 edition of Currents: International Trade Law Journal. The article is called Going Global: A Legal Primer for Innovation and Knowledge Based Companies.

The article is written for companies that are considering expanding operations outside the United States and discusses several common meanings of “going global.” Additionally, the articles addresses some special issues and concerns that arise with businesses that are based on innovation or knowledge.

Currents is the official international trade law journal of South Texas College of Law. It is published bi-annually by the law student members and editors of the Journal and is received by a wide range of subscribers, which include law schools, practitioners, private companies and universities in the U.S. and abroad. Currents focuses on international trade law in its broadest sense. It addresses issues concerning the effects of international trade agreements as well as aspects of international business transactions, including the sale of goods and services, licensing, investment, and dispute settlement.

CHESTER pllc is a Dallas, Texas law firm providing comprehensive legal services to innovation-based companies doing business in the US, around the world, and on the web.  Its mission (and passion) is helping entrepreneurs and emerging companies solve problems and protect their interests. CHESTER pllc delivers value by providing business-savvy, cost-effective solutions to legal challenges.  The firm offers a wide array of business legal solutions, such as business entity formation (LLCs, corporations, etc.), trademarks and other intellectual property, technology transactions, domestic and international contracts, and e-commerce matters.  Additional information about the firm and its attorneys may be found at www.chester-law.com.

 

Mar 01

Jim Chester Speaks to Paralegal Division of the State Bar of Texas

By News

J. F. (Jim) Chester, founder and managing partner in the Dallas-based global business & technology law firm of CHESTER pllc, recently presented a webinar on protecting intellectual property in international markets to the Paralegal Division of the State Bar of Texas. Chester spoke from CHESTER pllc’s main office in Dallas to attendees in locations across Texas.

The Paralegal Division of the State Bar of Texas regularly hosts Continuing Legal Education (CLE) events such as the one Chester presented to its members to educate them on various legal topics as part of its mission to empower paralegals.

The title of the presentation was, “Protecting Intellectual Property in International Markets.” Chester addressed the key elements of intellectual property asset protection. Chester also teaches courses on International Trade Law and International Business Transactions at Baylor University Law School.

Of the event, Chester reports, “protecting intellectual property, especially in international markets, is key to a business’ success. This is an important topic and I am glad that the Paralegal Division of the State Bar of Texas is addressing this issue.”

About CHESTER pllc

CHESTER pllc is a Dallas, Texas law firm providing comprehensive legal services to innovation-based companies doing business in the US, around the world, and on the web.  Its mission (and passion) is helping entrepreneurs and emerging companies solve problems and protect their interests. CHESTER pllc delivers value by providing business-savvy, cost-effective solutions to legal challenges.  The firm offers a wide array of business legal solutions, such as business entity formation (LLCs, corporations, etc.), trademarks and other intellectual property, technology transactions, domestic and international contracts, and e-commerce matters.  Additional information about the firm and its attorneys may be found at www.chester-law.com.

Feb 02

CHESTER pllc Hosts Art Contest for High School Students

By News

CHESTER pllc will hold its inaugural Art of Innovation Contest, which encourages students to explore the theme of innovation. The local art contest is open to all high school students that live in the 75214 zipcode, which encompasses neighborhoods in Lakewood and East Dallas. Prizes include cash awards up to $250 in addition to donations to the art department of top winners’ high schools. The winning art will be displayed at the main office of CHESTER pllc in Dallas. For more details about the contest, click here.

The contest challenges students to think about what the word “innovation” means and how there is an “art to innovation.” This theme is particularly relevant to CHESTER pllc because it embodies both how the firm serves its own clients and what the firm strives to help its clients achieve.

“Consistent to our mission to help our clients think outside the box, we see this as a way to encourage students in our community to do the same,” says J.F. (Jim) Chester, founding principal of CHESTER pllc. “We value making a positive impact on our community, and this is one more opportunity to accomplish this goal.”

CHESTER pllc is a Dallas, Texas law firm providing comprehensive legal services to innovation-based companies doing business in the US, around the world, and on the web.  Its mission (and passion) is helping entrepreneurs and emerging companies solve problems and protect their interests. CHESTER pllc delivers value by providing business-savvy, cost-effective solutions to legal challenges.  The firm offers a wide array of business legal solutions, such as business entity formation (LLCs, corporations, etc.), trademarks and other intellectual property, technology transactions, domestic and international contracts, and e-commerce matters.  Additional information about the firm and its attorneys may be found at www.chester-law.com.

Feb 01

Jim Chester Speaks at DISD’s Career Day Event

By Blog, Community, Innovation, Intellectual Property, International Business, News

Jim Chester explains "intellectual property" to first graders using a "Star Wars" branded notepad as an example

J. F. (Jim) Chester,  founding partner in the Dallas-based business and intellectual property law firm of CHESTER pllc, recently spoke to students at Lakewood Elementary School as part of in Dallas Independent School District’s (DISD) career day event.

 Chester, whose law practice involves commercial IP, technology transactions and international business/trade matters, also teaches courses on International Trade Law and International Business Transactions at Baylor University Law School.   Chester spoke to a class of first graders and fifth graders about his practice, educational background and experience.

 “At CHESTER pllc, we believe in the power of innovation and creative thinking,” notes Chester.  “We strive to help our clients, our team members, and our community innovate. Participating in community service events such as DISD career day is a vital part of our firm’s mission.”

About CHESTER pllc

CHESTER pllc is a Dallas, Texas law firm providing comprehensive legal services to innovation-based companies doing business in the US, around the world, and on the web.  Its mission (and passion) is helping entrepreneurs and emerging companies solve problems and protect their interests. CHESTER pllc delivers value by providing business-savvy, cost-effective solutions to legal challenges.  The firm offers a wide array of business legal solutions, such as business entity formation (LLCs, corporations, etc.), trademarks and other intellectual property, technology transactions, domestic and international contracts, and e-commerce matters.  Additional information about the firm and its attorneys may be found at www.chester-law.com.

Dec 19

CHESTER pllc 2012 Holiday Letter

By News

With one year almost at an end and a new year already visible on the horizon, it’s natural to look back over the past months to reflect a bit before diving head first into 2013. As such, and in keeping with the time-honored tradition of the “Holiday Letter,” I wanted to take this opportunity to revisit some of the key moments of 2012 for CHESTER pllc…

Click here to read more of the  CHESTER pllc 2012 Holiday Letter. (It might be slow to load, but its worth the wait!)

 

 

 

Nov 08

CHESTER pllc Announces Opening of New Office

By News

CHESTER pllc is pleased to announce the opening of its new office in Dallas, Texas. The new space is located in Lakewood Towers near White Rock Lake, and overlooks the historic Lakewood Theater and downtown Dallas (located less than four miles away).

Locating the new office in East Dallas was not an accident.

According to founding principal Jim Chester, a long-time Lakewood neighborhood resident, “East Dallas is home to a number of innovative companies and entrepreneurs, which is precisely the type of client our firm was built to serve.  Although we serve clients located throughout DFW and the U.S., as well as in other countries, we are excited to have been able to find great space in such a vibrant and dynamic area of Dallas.”

Like his entrepreneurial and innovation-based clients, Chester brings his own style to his firm and to the practice of law – and this new office is no exception.  The office exudes a sleek, modern style and confident environment reflective of CHESTER pllc’s clientele: tech-savvy, innovation-based companies.

“In addition to the modern décor, we employed the latest technologies at every turn: from cloud-based servers and hosted phone service to AppleTV based presentation screens beamed wirelessly from our Macbook Airs,” Chester added.  “Adopting state-of-the-art tools allows us to deliver legal services to our client more effectively and efficiently.”

The opening of this new office marks a significant step toward achieving Chester’s dream of creating a boutique law firm that meets the comprehensive, mission-critical legal needs of a select type of client: start-ups, entrepreneurs, and small to mid-sized intellectual property and technology based companies.

“Our firm seeks to provide an alternative to large, expensive firms by providing quality legal services for the core legal issues faced by technology and innovation-based clients at a reasonable cost,” notes Chester.  “This new location, combined with our existing staff and resources located in Atlanta, Chicago and Canada, allows us to attract and deliver value to the types of clients this firm was built to serve.”

Nov 08

Jim Chester Speaks at National Center for Policy Analysis Seminar

By News

J. F. (Jim) Chester, founding partner in the Dallas-based global business & technology law firm of CHESTER pllc, recently presented on how to protect innovation and technology to an audience of students at an event sponsored by the National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA).

The event was the annual Sumners Scholars Public Policy Seminar, which is hosted by the NCPA and funded by the Hatton W. Sumners Foundation for recipients of student scholarships to become informed about today’s most important and complex public policy issues from some of the nation’s leading experts. It was held at the HiltonAnatole Hotel in Dallas, Texas, over the weekend of November 2-3, 2012. Other presenters included Steve Kroft, an Emmy Award-winning correspondent for 60 Minutes, NCPA Senior Economist Barry Asmus, which was named by USA Today as one of the five most requested speakers in the United States, Mara Liasson, a National Political Correspondent for NPR, and Admiral Patrick Walsh, former Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet. The title of Chester’s presentation was “Innovation: America’s Most Critical and Vulnerable Resource.” He discussed how important innovation and emerging technologies are to the success of the U.S. economy, but how vulnerable they are to attack.

The best way to pre-emptively protect innovation from infringement is to take advantage of legal protections offered by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Of the event, Chester said, “I was honored to be asked to speak at this prestigious event.  These students represent some of the brightest minds in the country, and they asked thoughtful, provocative questions that really kept me on my toes.”

The National Center for Policy Analysis (NCPA) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan public policy research organization, established in 1983. Their goal is to develop and promote private, free-market alternatives to government regulation and control, solving problems by relying on the strength of the competitive, entrepreneurial private sector. They bring together the best and brightest minds to tackle the country’s most difficult public policy problems — in health care, taxes, retirement, small business, and the environment. They propose reforms that liberate consumers, workers, entrepreneurs and the power of the marketplace.

CHESTER pllc is a Dallas, Texas law firm providing comprehensive legal services to innovation-based companies doing business in the US, around the world, and on the web.  Its mission (and passion) is helping entrepreneurs and emerging companies solve problems and protect their interests. CHESTER pllc delivers value by providing business-savvy, cost-effective solutions to legal challenges.  The firm offers a wide array of business legal solutions, such as business entity formation (LLCs, corporations, etc.), trademarks and other intellectual property, technology transactions, domestic and international contracts, and e-commerce matters.  Additional information about the firm and its attorneys may be found at www.chester-law.com.