Design protection can be an effective competitive tool. A design registration documents a right to all or part of a product's form and / or appearance, such as patterns / ornamentations, for a limited time. A design registration grants an exclusive right to prevent others from producing, selling and using the protected design in a commercial context. Thus an exclusive right is one of the most valuable advantages a company can have in a competitive market.
Bull & Co have lawyers with extensive experience within this field and can advise on the registration process, offer strategic advice and assist in resolving any disputes that might arise. We can assist in the following areas:
- Assessing the potential for registering a design, including the novelty requirement
- Clarification regarding the use of spare parts; must-fit, must-match
- Drafting design applications – in relation to both national and international design authorities
- Preliminary searches to identify registered design
- Monitoring and notification of deadlines
- Legal assistance in conflict situations, including administrative reviews of registered designs
- Assessing infringements
- Advice on licences/licence agreements and the transfer of rights
- Compensation / remuneration