Utility Models
Technical innovations can represent valuable intellectual property. Utility models provide a fast and effective way of protecting technical inventions against imitation. Unlike patents, utility model protection is not available for processes. Like patents, however, utility models can represent a valuable business asset. As utility models are registered without substantive examination, protection can generally be obtained within just a few weeks. The maximum term of protection is ten years.
Our services:
- Prior art searches in preparation for filing
- Drafting utility model application documents
- Filing and handling of utility model registration proceedings
- Monitoring of deadlines and payment of maintenance fees
- Monitoring utility model registrations in selected fields of technology or by competitors
- Strategic advice
- Handling of utility model cancellation proceedings
- Assistance in utility model infringement proceedings before the civil courts
- Expert opinions on the validity of utility models
- Expert opinions on infringement issues