MH Wins Summary Judgment in Complex and Contentious Trade Secrets Case
McDowell Hetherington lawyers Will Thomas, David McDowell, and co-counsel John McHugh recently obtained summary judgment on remaining claims in a complex trade secret case involving new, devulcanization technologies that recycle rubber materials. Plaintiffs asserted that MH’s clients misappropriated their technology while previously providing services as independent contractors, violated non-compete agreements, and sought over $250,000,000 in damages. However, after lengthy discovery, Plaintiffs still lacked any evidence to support their bold and erroneous claims, as MH clients were permissibly developing their own, unique devulcanization technology. The case was originally filed in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas. MH and co-counsel successfully transferred the case to the District of Arizona, obtained monetary sanctions against Plaintiff, and dismissal of all Plaintiffs’ claims. The case is a resounding victory to MH’s clients, which are free to continue to develop and market their unique, devulcanization technology.
Originally Published on March 25, 2020