STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE (SOP)

1. PURPOSE

To outline the procedure for investigating and handling cases related to trademark and copyright violations, ensuring effective enforcement through legal and investigative measures.

2. SCOPE

This SOP applies to all investigations related to intellectual property (IP) rights violations, including counterfeit products, unauthorized branding, and infringement cases handled by Steve Power Intelligence and IP Services.

3. BACKGROUND

Steve Power Intelligence and IP Services is a reputed investigative firm specializing in brand protection and the enforcement of copyright and trademark laws. Headquartered in Bangalore, our organization has a network of dedicated field investigators operating round-the-clock to identify and address violations effectively. Investigations are initiated based on credible leads and intelligence gathered by our field operatives.

4. PROCEDURE

Step 1: Verification and Client Authorization

  1. Upon identifying a potential violation, our field investigators conduct a preliminary verification.
  2. If sufficient evidence is gathered, the concerned company is informed.
  3. Collected samples (for wholesalers and retailers) are presented to the company’s legal team for review.
  4. Upon obtaining a Power of Attorney (POA) from the client, authorizing us to act on their behalf, the investigation proceeds to the next stage.

Step 2: Coordination with Law Enforcement

  1. Once the targeted manufacturing unit, printing unit, shop, or warehouse is confirmed, a formal report is prepared.
  2. The concerned company is consulted for final affirmation.
  3. We approach the police authorities to seek legal assistance for conducting the raid.
  4. The raid team is briefed, and a coordinated plan is established before proceeding to the targeted location.

Step 3: Raid Execution and Seizure

  1. Law enforcement personnel accompany our investigation team to the targeted site.
  2. A search operation is conducted, and counterfeit/spurious goods are seized.
  3. Suspects involved in the operation are detained and taken to the nearest police station for further interrogation.
  4. Based on the arrested individuals’ statements, follow-up raids may be conducted at additional locations.

Step 4: Legal Action and Case Registration

  1. A case is registered against the accused under the Trademark Act or Copyright Act, and, where applicable, Section 420 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
  2. The accused is presented before the court the following day.
  3. Further investigation is carried out as necessary, and additional legal actions are taken based on evidence and interrogation findings.

5. CASE MONITORING AND FOLLOW-UP

  1. Although the case is legally classified as State vs. Accused, we actively monitor proceedings on behalf of our clients.
  2. We attend court hearings as required to support the legal process and ensure the case is handled effectively.
  3. Clients are regularly updated on case progress and any necessary legal developments.

6. REPORTING AND DOCUMENTATION

  1. A First Information Report (FIR) and a detailed Raid Report are prepared and shared with the client.
  2. Photographic and videographic evidence of the raid operation is provided for transparency and record-keeping.
  3. Legal documentation and case follow-ups are handled to ensure minimal inconvenience to the client.

7. CONCLUSION

Steve Power Intelligence and IP Services ensure that all IP violation cases are handled professionally and in strict compliance with legal protocols. We prioritize seamless coordination with law enforcement agencies, provide our clients with necessary legal support, and ensure thorough documentation to facilitate effective prosecution. Our commitment is to safeguard our clients from counterfeiting threats while maintaining legal integrity throughout the investigation process.