Chinese companies should do extensive homework on intellectual property before seeking opportunities in the United States, said Richard Racine, a partner at the law firm Finnegan, Henderson, Farabow, Garrett & Dunner.

While process of examining intangible assets is complex and challenging - covering patents, trademarks, copyrights and trade secrets - such due diligence is crucial to forestalling a potential disaster, the attorney said.

Racine said the process could range from a couple of days to several weeks.