Steven M. Zadravecz

Steven M. Zadravecz has not only handled high-stakes trade secret litigation, but also engaged in prominent defense-side employment litigation.

His notable achievements include securing significant victories for clients at Jones Day, often involving jury verdicts following trials. These victories encompass both the plaintiff and defense sides of trade secret disputes.

>One of the major cases where Zadravecz served as lead counsel is Applied Medical Distribution Corporation v. Stephen Jarrells and Bruin Biometrics . This case involved allegations of trade secret misappropriation, breach of contract and breach of loyalty by a former employee and his new employer. Zadravecz's legal expertise led to a stipulated preliminary injunction and a subsequent jury verdict in favor of Applied Medical Distribution Corporation, affirming trade secret misappropriation and contract breaches. The court awarded more than $550,000 in fees and costs, further solidifying the victory.

The matter was noteworthy as it applies trade secret concepts to parties that are not direct competitors, setting a precedent for the protection of trade secrets in broader contexts. Additionally, the case raises the novel issue of whether "investigation costs" and expenses to stop and remediate trade secret theft are recoverable as damages, which is pending resolution in the Court of Appeal.

"This case is on appeal, and the one significant issue that it will resolve, which is a matter of first impression in California, is whether certain 'investigation costs' and costs to stop/remediate trade secret theft are recoverable as damages," Zadravecz said. "That will be a novel issue for the Court of Appeal to consider."

Another significant case led by Zadravecz revolved around restrictive covenants in an asset purchase agreement and the attempt to enforce them through arbitration. Corenson and Orion Risk Management Insurance Services v. Venbrook Group LLC, et al . 22VECV00257 (L.A. Sup. Ct., filed Feb 22, 2022).

Zadravecz's legal strategy resulted in a favorable ruling for Corenson and Orion, allowing them to proceed with litigation in state court.

Zadravecz recognizes emerging trends in the trade secrets field. The ongoing work-from-home environment poses challenges in maintaining the security of trade secrets as employees continue to use personal and company electronic devices. Ensuring "reasonable steps" to protect trade secrets and addressing privacy concerns are becoming increasingly vital aspects of trade secret protection programs.

"This is all the more true given that employees will continue to intermingle their use of company and personal electronic devices to 'work from home,' and the overlay of privacy issues that will come into play when company property and trade secrets find their way onto the personal devices of employees," Zadravecz said.