Patent
1. What kind of protection does a patent offer?
In principle, the patent owner has the exclusive right to prevent or stop others from commercially exploiting the patented invention. In other words, patent protection means that the invention cannot be commercially made, used, distributed, imported or sold by others without the patent owner’s consent.
2. Is a patent valid in every country?
Patents are territorial rights. In general, the exclusive rights are only applicable in the country or region in which a patent has been filed and granted, in accordance with the law of that country or region.
3. How long does a patent last?
The protection is granted for a limited period, generally 20 years from the filing date of the application.
When patent advice may be useful
Patent questions often begin before a product or process is publicly disclosed. A useful first review considers what the invention does, what appears new, who created it, who owns it and where protection may be commercially important.
Examples of patent-related enquiries
- A technical improvement to a manufacturing process
- A new device, component or mechanical arrangement
- A chemical composition or technical product formulation
- An invention created by employees, consultants or collaborators
- Questions about ownership, licensing or suspected unauthorised use
Frequently asked questions
Does a patent protect a product’s appearance?
A patent primarily concerns a qualifying technical invention. The visual appearance of a product may instead raise industrial-design questions, while its name may be protected through trademark law.
Should an invention be disclosed before filing?
Public disclosure can affect patentability. Seek advice before publishing, selling, presenting or sharing technical details without appropriate confidentiality arrangements.
What should I bring to a consultation?
Prepare a plain-language explanation, drawings, development dates, inventor and ownership details, prior searches and information about any disclosure.
Related: Intellectual property · Industrial designs · Request a consultation