Patent Services

A patent is a legal right granted to an inventor, providing exclusive use of the invention for a set period. In the UK, an invention can be patented if it is something that can be made or used, is new, involves an inventive step that is not obvious to someone with knowledge and experience in the subject and is not excluded by law. Notably, inventions must have industrial applicability.

If you are looking to secure a patent or want to understand if your invention qualifies, our expert team is here to help. Reach out to us on 0207 459 4037 or schedule a Free Consultation through our online booking form to discuss your patent needs.

Patents cover a broad range of inventions, from technological advancements like new machinery, electronics, or chemicals, to software and new methods of doing business.

Pharmaceuticals often involve complex patent portfolios, and biotechnological inventions—such as genetic engineering or new bacterial strains—are common areas of patenting.

To discuss your innovation and explore patent protection, call our intellectual property lawyers on 0207 459 4037 or book your Free Consultation online. Our experienced team can help ensure your intellectual property is fully protected.

The patent application process in the UK involves several steps, including preparing a detailed description of the invention, filing the application with the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO), having the application published, and undergoing a substantive examination where the UKIPO checks for compliance with patentability requirements. Responding to any objections or requirements set by the UKIPO is also part of this process, which can be complex.

Navigating the patent application process requires a strategic approach. Contact us on 0207 459 4037 or arrange a Free Consultation through our online form for professional guidance to maximise your chances of successful patent registration.

Securing patent protection globally requires navigating a patchwork of international laws. While there is no universal ‘global patent’, you can file an international application under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), which streamlines the process for multiple countries. Alternatively, you may file directly in individual countries or use regional systems like the European Patent Convention (EPC) for protection in European countries.

Considering a global patent strategy? Our experienced intellectual property lawyers can guide you through the complexities.

The UK patent system does not have ‘provisional’ and ‘non-provisional’ patents as such terms are specific to the United States. In the UK, you may file an initial patent application that establishes a filing date and gives you 12 months to file a complete application. This initial filing can be akin to the US provisional application, providing a ‘priority date’ from which you can claim the novelty of your invention.

For bespoke advice on securing your invention’s priority date and the nuances between UK and US patent filings, contact our intellectual property experts on 0207 459 4037 for Free Consultation.

In the UK, a patent lasts for up to 20 years from the filing date, provided it is renewed annually after the fifth year. In certain cases, such as for pharmaceuticals or plant protection products, you may extend the protection for up to a further 5 years using a Supplementary Protection Certificate (SPC).

To explore extending your patent’s life or to ensure your patent rights are maintained, get in touch with our experienced IP lawyers.

The cost of filing a patent can vary widely, depending on the complexity of your invention, the number of claims you make, and the countries where you seek protection. In the UK, initial costs may include the application fee, search fee, and examination fee, alongside attorney fees. Additionally, you should budget for annual renewal fees to keep the patent in force after the fifth year.

For an invention to be patentable in the UK, it must meet certain criteria: it should be new, involve an inventive step, be capable of industrial application, and not fall within excluded categories (such as scientific theories or artistic creations). Determining patentability can be complex and requires professional assessment.

If you are unsure about the patentability of your invention, our expert lawyers are at hand to evaluate and guide you through the process. Contact us on 0207 459 4037 or book your Free Consultation today using our online scheduling form.

A patent search is an investigation into existing patents and published applications to assess whether your invention is novel and inventive. Conducting a search before applying can help ascertain the likelihood of your patent being granted and may prevent costly infringement issues.

While not compulsory, a patent search is highly recommended. Our intellectual property lawyers have the expertise to conduct thorough searches and interpret the results. For a professional patent search, give us a call at 0207 459 4037 or use our online booking form for a Free Consultation.

In the UK, software and mobile applications can be tricky to patent due to the exclusions of ‘computer programs as such’ from patentability. However, if the software solves a technical problem or provides a novel technical contribution, it may qualify for a patent. The key is demonstrating that the invention goes beyond the software’s programming and offers a technical solution.

For personalised advice on patenting software or apps, contact our expert intellectual property lawyers. We’ll help you navigate the complexities. Call us on 0207 459 4037 or complete our online booking form for a Free Consultation.

Patent infringement occurs when a product or process incorporates all the features of a claim of a granted patent without permission. To avoid infringement, you should ensure your product or process is significantly different or seek a licence from the patent holder. It’s also vital to conduct due diligence with a freedom to operate search before commercialising any new product or technology.

If you are concerned about potential infringement or facing accusations yourself, do not hesitate to seek professional guidance. Our experienced lawyers are ready to assist you. Contact us on 0207 459 4037 or schedule a Free Consultation through our online form to discuss your situation.

In the UK, patent infringement claims must typically be brought within six years from the date of the infringement. However, the specifics can vary, and different rules may apply for ongoing infringements or if you have only recently become aware of the infringement.

To understand the deadlines relevant to your case, or if you suspect an infringement of your patent rights, it’s crucial to act promptly. Our intellectual property lawyers can offer expert advice on the best course of action. Call us on 0207 459 4037 or use our booking form online to arrange a Free Consultation and discuss your legal options.

Defences against a patent infringement claim can include challenging the validity of the patent itself, arguing that the accused product or process does not actually infringe on the patent’s claims, or asserting that the use falls within a statutory exemption, such as for experimental use. Additionally, a licence or the exhaustion of rights may also serve as a defence.

Should you face a patent infringement claim, it’s critical to seek expert legal advice at the earliest opportunity.

For patent infringement, the courts may grant several remedies. These include injunctions to prevent further infringement, orders for the destruction or delivery up of infringing products, and financial compensation. Damages or an account of profits are the usual financial remedies, but the circumstances of each case will determine which is more appropriate.

If you believe your patent has been infringed upon, do not delay in seeking legal help. Our team can guide you through the process to secure the protection your invention deserves. Contact us for a Free Consultation at 0207 459 4037 or fill in our online booking form.

The amount recoverable in damages for patent infringement is typically assessed because of the actual loss suffered as a result of the infringement. This may be calculated based on lost profits or on a reasonable royalty rate. Each case is unique, and the court will consider several factors, including the infringer’s sales and the patent holder’s loss of market share.

To get an accurate assessment of the damages you may be entitled to, consult with one of our intellectual property experts. We are committed to ensuring you receive full compensation for any infringement of your patents. Get in touch with us at 0207 459 4037 or secure your Free Consultation by completing our online form.

Enforcing patent rights typically involves several steps. Initially, it may be appropriate to send a cease and desist letter to the infringer, outlining your patent rights and demanding that they stop their infringing activities. If this does not resolve the issue, legal action may be necessary, which could include seeking an injunction to stop further infringement and potentially claiming damages for past infringement.

If you are dealing with potential infringement and unsure of your next steps, please reach out to us. Our team of experienced IP lawyers can provide you with a strategy tailored to your situation. Contact us on 0207 459 4037 to arrange a Free Consultation.

The European Patent Office (EPO) provides a streamlined process for patent registration across its member states through a single application process. While it does not grant a ‘European patent’, it does offer a bundle of national patents upon approval, which can then be validated in the member states of your choice.

For guidance on navigating the EPO’s processes and to ensure your innovations receive broad protection, our IP specialists can help.

Yes, patents are intellectual property assets that can be sold or licensed to others. Selling a patent transfers ownership, while licensing allows others to use your invention under agreed terms without giving up your ownership rights. Licensing can be exclusive, non-exclusive, or sole, depending on the agreement terms.

Brexit has not affected the validity of existing European patents in the UK. The European Patent Office is not an EU institution, so European patents continue to cover the UK. However, the planned Unified Patent Court will not include the UK, meaning that patent enforcement strategies may need to be adjusted.

A patent pool is an agreement where two or more patent owners agree to license one or more of their patents to one another or third parties. Patent pools are usually formed around complex technologies that require access to multiple patents, facilitating easier licensing for all parties involved and reducing litigation risks.

If you are involved in a sector where technology integration is key, and you are considering entering a patent pool, our legal team can provide essential guidance. Please call us at 0207 459 4037 for a Free Consultation to discuss the intricacies of patent pooling and how it could benefit your business.