Trade Secret Theft: How to Spot It and What to Do Next

Episode Summary: In this episode of In the Courtroom and the Boardroom, business attorney Colleen McKnight breaks down the critical issue of trade secret theft—what qualifies as a trade secret, how companies discover theft, and what legal steps to take when confidential information is stolen. Colleen also shares practical strategies business owners can implement to prevent trade secret misappropriation before it escalates into a costly lawsuit. Whether it’s protecting client lists, proprietary processes, or groundbreaking innovations, Colleen offers insight into how Texas and federal law define trade secrets, how courts determine whether information is legally protected, and the balance between employee mobility and employer rights. Key Timestamps: 01:45 – What legally counts as a trade secret under Texas and federal law 04:10 – Real-world examples of trade secrets: Coca-Cola, KFC, and beyond 06:40 – How businesses typically discover trade secrets have been stolen 09:25 – Why trade secrets differ from trademarks, patents, and copyrights 12:15 – The role of confidentiality agreements and non-competes in protection 14:30 – Civil vs. criminal aspects of trade secret theft 16:45 – First legal steps to take if trade secrets are suspected stolen 18:20 – Colleen’s top advice for preventing trade secret theft in the first place About the Show: In the Courtroom and the Boardroom with Colleen McKnight helps business owners tackle legal challenges with confidence. As a seasoned trial lawyer and founder of McKnight Law PLLC, Colleen provides practical, plain-English guidance on how to navigate disputes, mitigate risk, and stay focused on growth—even in the face of litigation. Learn More: Visit mcknightlaw.us to connect with Colleen or schedule a consultation.