yes in a perfect world, patents are protected by the rule of law. LOL. Unfortunately there are many conglomerates out there that work under their own rule of law and have the resources to take what they want.
Having a GOOD patent lawyer looking out for the company's best interests will go along way in protecting the company from any "unforseen" disasters such as back door patent infringements.
Patent Protection would be strengthen by the signing of a PDA. An appropriate SRP protecting the company from hostile takeovers is a necessity.
Obviously, management does not see the immediate need to request the shareholders approve a SRP at this time. this tells me we are still with time to signing any PDA.
IMO.