"No doubt that they would have previously signed non-disclosure documents which would probably negate their value for a period of years, but I do understand what you are saying."

Beyond that, in terms of dealing with AAPL, it would be unethical behavior for a lawyer to represent another company in negotiations with their former client (in this case, employer). I know what you're all thinking (lawyers - unethical behavior - what does a bear do in the woods), but, what generally happens in such situations, if the lawyer does not recuse him or herself, is AAPL would object to the involvement of those lawyers and that would be the end of their potential use.

However, in terms of using the techniques learned while at AAPL in dealing with other of POET's potential partners/customers, there should be no problem.