Intellectual property (IP) law encompasses the legal rights and protections granted to creators and owners of intellectual assets. These assets can include inventions, literary and artistic works, symbols, names, images, and designs used in commerce.
IP has become business-critical for many organisations, serving as both a defensive strategy to protect valuable assets and an offensive tool to enforce rights against infringement. The significance of IP extends far beyond mere ownership; it encompasses the ability to safeguard innovations, brand identities, and creative works, ensuring they remain exclusive and profitable.
Dealing with the complexities of IP law requires a combination of legal and commercial insight to maximise the impact of any strategic advice. This is where the expertise of IP lawyers becomes invaluable; they bring a deep understanding of the intricate legal landscape combined with a keen awareness of business imperatives, offering comprehensive solutions that protect and enhance the value of your intellectual assets.
In this guide, we set out the key areas of expertise that IP lawyers offer, with advice on how to choose the best IP lawyer for your specific needs.
Section A: Overview of Intellectual Property
Intellectual property (IP) refers to creations of the mind that are given legal protection and exclusive rights. These creations can be inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce. The main aim of IP law is to encourage innovation and creativity by providing creators and inventors with a time-limited monopoly over the use of their creations. Understanding the different types of intellectual property and their applications across various industries is essential for individuals and businesses to protect and leverage their innovations effectively.
1. Types of Intellectual Property
a. Patents
A patent is a legal right granted for an invention, providing the patent holder with the exclusive right to make, use, sell, and distribute the invention for a specific period, usually 20 years from the filing date.
Examples include smartphones, medical devices, software algorithms, new drugs and treatment methods.
b. Trademarks
A trademark is a recognisable sign, design, or expression that distinguishes products or services of a particular source from those of others. Trademarks help protect brand identity.
Examples include the Nike “swoosh” logo and the Coca-Cola script and bottle shape.
c. Copyright
Copyright is a legal right that grants the creator of an original work exclusive rights to its use and distribution, usually for the creator’s lifetime plus 70 years. It applies to literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works.
Examples of copyrighted material include books, articles, poetry, movies, music, and video games.
d. Trade Secrets
Trade secrets are practices, designs, formulas, processes, or any information that provides a business with a competitive edge. Trade secrets are protected without registration, as long as the information remains confidential.
Examples include the recipe for Coca-Cola and proprietary algorithms used by companies like Google.
2. Importance of Intellectual Property Protection for Individuals and Businesses
Intellectual property protection is crucial for both individuals and businesses for several reasons.
Firstly, it encourages innovation and creativity. IP laws provide incentives for inventors, artists, and entrepreneurs by granting them exclusive rights to their creations. This exclusivity encourages ongoing innovation and artistic expression, as creators can profit from their work.
Secondly, it drives economic growth and competitiveness. Protecting intellectual property promotes investment in research and development. Companies are more likely to invest in new technologies and products if they can secure exclusive rights and potential returns on their investments.
Thirdly, it protects brand identity and reputation. Trademarks and trade dress safeguard the identity and reputation of businesses. Strong IP protection ensures that consumers can trust the origin and quality of the products and services they purchase.
Fourthly, it prevents unauthorised use. IP rights help prevent the unauthorised use, reproduction, or distribution of creations. This protection allows creators and businesses to control how their work is used and take legal action against infringement.
Lastly, intellectual property provides monetary benefits. IP can be a valuable asset that generates revenue through licensing, sales, or partnerships. These rights can enhance the value of a business, attract investors, and provide additional income streams.
Section B: Why You Need an Intellectual Property Lawyer
Dealing with the complexities of intellectual property (IP) law can be daunting without professional guidance. Intellectual property lawyers specialise in helping individuals and businesses protect their creative and innovative assets, ensuring that their rights are upheld and that they can fully capitalise on their inventions, brands, and creative works.
Understanding the critical role that IP lawyers play and the common scenarios where their expertise is invaluable can help you make informed decisions about protecting your intellectual property.
1. Importance of Legal Expertise in Protecting IP
Intellectual property law is complex and constantly evolving. IP lawyers possess specialised knowledge and experience that enable them to navigate these complexities, ensuring that your IP rights are adequately protected. They remain updated on the latest changes in IP laws and regulations, which is crucial for maintaining robust protection and avoiding legal pitfalls.
An IP lawyer can help identify all potential IP assets within your business, ensuring that nothing valuable is overlooked. They can advise on the best type of protection for each asset, such as whether to file for a patent or keep an invention as a trade secret. This tailored approach ensures that each asset receives the appropriate level of protection.
Filing for patents, trademarks, and copyrights can involve extensive paperwork and adherence to specific legal requirements. Mistakes in the application process can lead to delays, rejections, or weaker protection. IP lawyers ensure that applications are accurately prepared and filed, increasing the likelihood of successful registration and securing strong IP rights from the outset.
Protecting intellectual property does not end with registration; it also involves monitoring and enforcing those rights. IP lawyers can help detect and address infringement, take legal action against violators, and defend your IP rights in disputes. Their expertise ensures that your intellectual property remains secure and effectively protected against any potential threats.
2. Common Scenarios Requiring an IP Lawyer
By leveraging the expertise of an intellectual property lawyer, individuals and businesses can ensure their creative and innovative assets are effectively protected, managed, and enforced, allowing them to focus on growth and innovation. Common scenarios where an IP lawyer is required include:
a. Patent Applications
Drafting and filing patent applications require detailed technical and legal knowledge. An IP lawyer ensures that the application is thorough, accurately describing the invention and its uniqueness. They can also help with international patent protection, navigating the complexities of filing in multiple jurisdictions.
b. Trademark Registration
Securing a trademark involves more than just filing an application. An IP lawyer conducts thorough searches to ensure your desired trademark is available and not infringing on existing trademarks. They can handle opposition proceedings if another party challenges your trademark application.
c. Copyright Protection
While copyrights automatically protect original works upon creation, registering the copyright provides additional legal benefits, such as the ability to sue for statutory damages and attorney’s fees.
An IP lawyer can assist in registering copyrights and advising on how to best protect and enforce these rights.
d. IP Disputes and Litigation
IP disputes can arise from alleged infringement, breach of IP agreements, or challenges to IP validity.
An IP lawyer represents clients in negotiations, mediations, and court proceedings, aiming to resolve disputes favourably.
e. Licensing and Commercialisation
Licensing IP can be a lucrative way to monetise your assets. An IP lawyer helps draft and negotiate licensing agreements, ensuring your interests are protected and that you receive fair compensation.
They can also advise on other commercialisation strategies, such as selling IP rights or forming partnerships.
f. Trade Secrets Protection
Protecting trade secrets requires implementing robust confidentiality measures and agreements.
An IP lawyer can draft non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), advise on best practices for maintaining secrecy, and take legal action if trade secrets are misappropriated.
Section C: The Intellectual Property Legal Market in the UK
The intellectual property (IP) legal market in the UK is a dynamic and essential sector catering to the diverse needs of individuals, businesses, and institutions seeking to protect their innovative and creative assets. With the UK being a hub for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, the demand for specialised IP legal services continues to grow.
1. Overview of the IP Legal Market in the UK
The UK’s IP legal market is one of the most developed in the world, driven by the country’s robust legal framework and its reputation as a global leader in innovation and creativity. The market encompasses a wide range of services, including patent and trademark registration, copyright protection, IP litigation, licensing, and commercialisation. UK IP law is governed by a combination of national legislation, European Union regulations (for the time being), and international treaties, providing comprehensive protection for intellectual assets.
2. Key Statistics and Trends
The UK IP legal market is valued at approximately £1 billion annually, reflecting steady growth as businesses increasingly recognise the importance of protecting their intellectual assets. The market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 5% over the next few years, driven by technological advancements and the rise of digital content.
The UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) received over 22,000 patent applications in the past year, with a significant portion coming from the technology and pharmaceutical sectors. Approximately 10,000 patents were granted, indicating the high level of innovation occurring within the UK.
Trademark filings have seen a notable increase, with over 70,000 applications submitted annually. This rise is partly due to the growing importance of brand protection in a globalised market.
The number of IP litigation cases has been rising, reflecting the increased enforcement of IP rights. High-profile cases often involve patent disputes in the tech and pharmaceutical industries.
Alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation and arbitration, are becoming more popular as cost-effective and timely solutions to IP conflicts.
Section D: How to Choose the Right Intellectual Property Lawyer
Selecting the right intellectual property (IP) lawyer is crucial for effectively protecting and managing your creative and innovative assets. The right lawyer can make a significant difference in the outcome of your IP matters, whether you’re filing for a patent, registering a trademark, or resolving an IP dispute.
1. Factors to Consider
a. Experience
Look for a lawyer with substantial experience in IP law, particularly in the area relevant to your needs (e.g., patents, trademarks, copyrights). An experienced lawyer will have a better understanding of the nuances of IP law and be more adept at navigating complex legal issues.
b. Specialism
IP law encompasses various specialities, so it’s important to choose a lawyer who specialises in the specific type of IP protection you require. For instance, if you need help with patent protection, a lawyer with a strong background in patent law and technical expertise in your industry will be more effective.
c. Success Rate
Investigate the lawyer’s track record of success in handling IP cases similar to yours. A high success rate indicates competence and reliability. Ask for case studies or examples of successful outcomes they have achieved for other clients.
d. Reputation
Research the lawyer’s reputation within the legal community and among past clients. Positive reviews and testimonials can provide insight into their reliability and client service. Consider looking for recommendations from colleagues or industry professionals.
e. Communication Skills
Effective communication is key to a successful attorney-client relationship. Ensure the lawyer is responsive and able to explain complex legal concepts in a way that you can understand. Good communication also involves keeping you informed about the progress of your case and promptly addressing any concerns you may have.
2. Questions to Ask Potential Lawyers
a. What is your experience in handling IP cases similar to mine? This question helps you gauge the lawyer’s familiarity with your specific type of IP issue.
b. What is your success rate in IP cases? Understanding their track record can give you confidence in their ability to achieve a favourable outcome.
c. Do you have experience in my industry? Industry-specific knowledge can be crucial, especially for technical fields like biotechnology or software.
d. What are your fees and billing practices? Clarify the lawyer’s fee structure (hourly, flat fee, contingency) and any additional costs that may arise.
e. Can you provide references from past clients? Speaking with past clients can provide valuable insights into the lawyer’s capabilities and working style.
f. How do you handle conflicts of interest? Ensure that the lawyer has no conflicts of interest that could affect their ability to represent you effectively.
g. What is your approach to keeping clients updated on their cases? Knowing how the lawyer will communicate with you during the case can help set expectations and ensure you remain informed.
3. Evaluating Lawyer Qualifications and Credentials
a. Education and Certifications
Review the lawyer’s educational background, including their law school and any specialised training or certifications in IP law.
Membership in professional organisations, such as the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA) or the Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys (ITMA), indicates a commitment to ongoing professional development.
b. Professional Experience
Look at the lawyer’s professional history, including the number of years they have practised IP law and their experience with different types of IP cases. Consider any additional qualifications, such as technical degrees that may be relevant to your industry.
c. Published Works and Speaking Engagements
Lawyers who publish articles or speak at industry conferences are often recognised as experts in their field. This can indicate a high level of knowledge and thought leadership.
d. Client Testimonials and Reviews
Read reviews and testimonials from past clients to get a sense of the lawyer’s reputation and client satisfaction.
Look for consistent positive feedback regarding their expertise, professionalism, and results.
e. Case Outcomes
Ask for examples of past cases they have handled, including the strategies used and the outcomes achieved. This can give you a clearer picture of their problem-solving abilities and success rates.
Section E: Costs and Fees
Understanding the costs and fees associated with hiring an intellectual property (IP) lawyer is crucial for effective financial planning and ensuring you receive value for your investment. The costs can vary widely depending on the complexity of your IP needs, the lawyer’s experience, and the fee structure they use.
1. Overview of Typical Costs Associated with Hiring an IP Lawyer
Hiring an IP lawyer can be a significant investment, but it is often necessary to protect and enforce your intellectual property rights effectively. Typical costs you might incur include:
a. Consultation Fees: Initial consultations may be free or charged at an hourly rate. This is an opportunity to discuss your IP needs and evaluate whether the lawyer is a good fit for your case.
b. Filing Fees: There are government fees for filing patents, trademarks, and copyrights. These fees vary depending on the type of IP and the jurisdiction. For instance, filing a patent application in the UK can cost several hundred pounds, while trademark applications might cost less.
c. Search and Examination Fees: Patent searches, trademark searches, and other preliminary examinations to ensure your IP is unique and not infringing on existing rights can add to the costs.
d. Drafting and Preparation Fees: The cost of preparing and drafting documents such as patent applications, trademark registrations, and licensing agreements. These can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds depending on the complexity.
e. Prosecution and Litigation Costs: If your IP application faces opposition or if you need to enforce your rights through litigation, the costs can escalate significantly. Litigation expenses include court fees, expert witness fees, and additional legal fees.
f. Maintenance Fees: Some IP rights, particularly patents, require regular maintenance fees to keep them in force.
2. Different Fee Structures
IP lawyers may use different fee structures based on the nature of the services provided. Understanding these structures can help you choose the best option for your needs and budget:
a. Hourly Rate: The lawyer charges a set fee per hour of work. Hourly rates can vary widely based on the lawyer’s experience, expertise, and location. In the UK, hourly rates for IP lawyers can range from £150 to £600 or more.
b. Flat Fee: A single, upfront fee for a specific service, such as filing a trademark application or drafting a patent. Flat fees provide predictability and can be advantageous for straightforward tasks.
c. Contingency Fee: The lawyer’s fee is contingent upon winning the case or securing a favourable settlement. This structure is less common in IP law but may be used in certain types of litigation or licensing agreements.
d. Retainer Fee: A retainer is an advance payment to secure the lawyer’s services, often used to cover ongoing legal needs. The lawyer bills against the retainer, and you may need to replenish it as funds are used.
3. Tips for Budgeting for Legal Services
Effective budgeting can help manage the costs of hiring an IP lawyer and ensure you have the necessary resources to protect your intellectual property:
a. Get Multiple Estimates: Consult with several IP lawyers to get estimates for your specific needs. This will give you a sense of the market rates and help you find the best value.
b. Clarify Fee Structures: Make sure you understand the lawyer’s fee structure and what is included in their fees. Ask for detailed breakdowns of potential costs.
c. Set a Budget: Determine how much you are willing and able to spend on IP protection. Consider the potential return on investment and how critical the IP is to your business.
d. Negotiate Fees: Don’t be afraid to negotiate fees or ask for alternative fee arrangements that better suit your budget. Some lawyers may offer flexible payment plans.
e. Monitor and Control Costs: Keep track of legal expenses and regularly review invoices. Address any discrepancies or unexpected charges with your lawyer promptly.
f. Plan for Long-Term Costs: Consider ongoing costs such as maintenance fees and potential future legal needs. Budget for these expenses to avoid surprises down the line.
g. Use Alternative Dispute Resolution: When possible, opt for mediation or arbitration to resolve disputes, as these methods can be more cost-effective than litigation.
Section F: Working with an IP Lawyer
Engaging with an intellectual property (IP) lawyer is a crucial step in safeguarding your creative and innovative assets. Understanding the process of working with an IP lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of IP law more effectively and ensure that your rights are well-protected. You can typically expect the following stages when working with an IP lawyer:
1. Initial Consultation
The initial consultation with an IP lawyer is your opportunity to discuss your needs and determine whether the lawyer is a good fit for your case.
The lawyer will ask you to provide detailed information about your intellectual property, including any existing protections and your specific goals, such as filing a patent, registering a trademark, or addressing an infringement issue. This thorough assessment ensures that all aspects of your IP are considered.
Based on the information you provide, the lawyer will offer preliminary advice on the best course of action. This may include recommendations on the type of IP protection needed and potential strategies for securing and enforcing your rights. This initial guidance helps you understand your options and plan your next steps.
The lawyer will explain their fee structure and provide an estimate of the costs involved. This is an excellent opportunity to ask any questions about fees and payment arrangements, ensuring that you have a clear understanding of the financial commitment required.
The lawyer will outline the next steps in the process and what will be required from you. This may include gathering additional documentation or conducting preliminary searches. Understanding the subsequent actions and your role in the process helps you prepare effectively for the journey ahead in protecting your intellectual property.
2. Legal Process
The legal process for protecting intellectual property involves several key stages. Throughout all these stages, the lawyer’s expertise ensures that your intellectual property is effectively protected and any legal challenges are appropriately addressed.
Firstly, research needs to be conducted to ensure your IP is unique and does not infringe on existing rights. This includes patent searches, trademark searches, and copyright checks. Due diligence is performed to investigate any prior art for patents or existing trademarks to assess the viability of your IP application.
Once the research is complete, the next step is filing. This involves drafting the necessary documents for your IP application, such as patent claims, trademark descriptions, and copyright registrations. The lawyer then submits the application to the appropriate government agency, such as the UK Intellectual Property Office, ensuring all paperwork is accurately completed and submitted on time.
Following the filing, the prosecution phase begins. The IP office reviews your application, which for patents includes technical and legal examination, and for trademarks, it involves ensuring the mark meets all legal requirements. During this phase, the lawyer responds to any queries or objections from the IP office, which may involve amending the application or providing additional information. If there are objections or oppositions from third parties, the lawyer negotiates on your behalf to resolve these issues.
Litigation is another crucial aspect of the legal process. If someone infringes on your IP rights, the lawyer will help enforce these rights through legal action, which can include sending cease and desist letters, negotiating settlements, or taking the matter to court. Conversely, if you are accused of infringing someone else’s IP rights, the lawyer will defend you, aiming to resolve the dispute favourably.
3. How to Maintain a Good Client-Lawyer Relationship
When working with an IP lawyer, the following can help to optimise your combined efforts:
a. Clear Communication
Maintain open and honest communication with your lawyer. Provide all relevant information promptly and keep them updated on any developments related to your intellectual property. This ensures your lawyer has all the necessary details to represent you effectively.
b. Set Expectations
Establish clear expectations regarding the scope of work, timelines, and costs. Make sure you understand the legal process and what is required from you at each stage. This helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures both parties are on the same page.
c. Stay Informed
Take an active interest in your case. Ask questions if you do not understand something, and request regular updates from your lawyer. Staying informed allows you to make better decisions and feel more confident in the process.
d. Be Responsive
Respond promptly to your lawyer’s requests for information or documentation. Delays in providing necessary details can slow down the legal process. Timely responses help keep your case moving forward smoothly.
e. Trust Their Expertise
Trust your lawyer’s expertise and advice. While it’s important to be informed, remember that your lawyer has the experience and knowledge to guide you through complex intellectual property matters. Relying on their professional judgement can lead to better outcomes.
f. Manage Costs
Discuss and agree on the budget for legal services upfront. Regularly review invoices and address any concerns about costs with your lawyer. Transparent discussions about fees help manage expectations and prevent financial surprises.
g. Provide Feedback
Provide feedback on the services you receive. Constructive feedback helps improve the client-lawyer relationship and ensures that your needs are met. Your input can lead to better service and a more effective partnership.
Section G: Summary
Protecting intellectual property is essential for fostering innovation, securing competitive advantage, and ensuring the long-term success of individuals and businesses.
The UK intellectual property legal market offers a wealth of expertise and services tailored to meet diverse IP needs. By considering factors such as experience, specialisation, and success rates, you can choose the right IP lawyer to help protect your intellectual property rights and enhance your business’s growth potential.
Section H: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is intellectual property (IP)?
Intellectual property (IP) refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce. IP law grants creators exclusive rights to their creations to protect and control their use.
Why is protecting intellectual property important?
Protecting intellectual property is crucial because it ensures creators can reap the benefits of their work, encourages innovation, prevents unauthorised use or infringement, and enhances the value and competitiveness of a business.
How do I know if I need an IP lawyer?
You might need an IP lawyer if you are developing a new product or invention, creating a brand or logo, writing a book, composing music, producing artwork, facing potential IP infringement issues, seeking to enforce your IP rights or defending against infringement claims.
What should I expect during an initial consultation with an IP lawyer?
During an initial consultation, you can expect an assessment of your IP needs, preliminary advice on potential strategies, an explanation of the costs and fee structures and a discussion of the next steps and required documentation.
How much does it cost to hire an IP lawyer?
The cost of hiring an IP lawyer varies depending on factors like the complexity of your case, the lawyer’s experience, and the type of IP protection you need. Fee structures can include hourly rates, flat fees, or contingency fees. It’s important to discuss and agree on the costs upfront.
How can I protect my intellectual property in the UK?
In the UK, you can protect your intellectual property through various means depending on the type of IP. Patents protect inventions and are granted by the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO). Trademarks, which protect brand names and logos, can also be registered with the IPO. Copyright automatically protects original literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works without the need for registration. Design rights can be registered to protect the appearance of a product.
How long does patent protection last in the UK?
In the UK, patent protection lasts for up to 20 years from the filing date of the patent application, provided that the renewal fees are paid annually. This period allows the patent holder to exclusively exploit the invention commercially, after which the patent expires and the invention enters the public domain.
What are the consequences of IP infringement in the UK?
IP infringement in the UK can lead to serious legal consequences. If someone uses your IP without permission, you can take legal action to enforce your rights. Remedies for IP infringement can include injunctions to stop the infringing activity, monetary damages, and, in some cases, the destruction of infringing goods. Criminal penalties may also apply in cases of counterfeiting and piracy.
Can I enforce my UK IP rights internationally?
While UK IP rights are primarily enforceable within the UK, there are mechanisms to protect and enforce your IP internationally. For patents, you can file a European Patent application or use the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) to seek protection in multiple countries. Trademarks can be protected internationally through the Madrid System, administered by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). For copyrights, international protection is often available under various treaties and conventions, such as the Berne Convention, which the UK is a part of.
Section I: Glossary of Intellectual Property Terms
Assignment: The transfer of ownership rights in intellectual property from one party to another.
Author: The creator of an original work that is protected by copyright.
Brand: A name, term, design, symbol, or any other feature that identifies one seller’s goods or services as distinct from those of other sellers.
Copyright: A legal right that grants the creator of original works exclusive rights to its use and distribution, usually for a limited time.
Counterfeit: An imitation of something valuable or important with the intention to deceive or defraud.
Design Right: Protection is given to the visual design of objects that are not purely utilitarian.
Domain Name: An address on the internet that is unique to a particular website and often associated with a trademark.
Enforcement: Legal measures taken to ensure compliance with intellectual property laws and to address violations.
Infringement: Unauthorised use of intellectual property rights belonging to someone else.
Intellectual Property (IP): Creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce.
Licence: A legal agreement granting permission to use intellectual property under specified conditions.
Patent: A form of protection that grants the patent holder exclusive rights to an invention for a certain period of time, typically 20 years.
Registration: The process of filing an application with a government body to secure legal protection for intellectual property rights.
Trade Secret: Information that is not generally known and is subject to efforts to maintain its secrecy, providing a competitive advantage to its owner.
Trademark: A recognisable sign, design, or expression which identifies products or services of a particular source from those of others.
Utility Model: A type of patent that provides protection for minor improvements to and adaptations of existing products or processes.
Section J: Additional Resources
UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO)
https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/intellectual-property-office
The official government body responsible for intellectual property rights in the UK. Their website offers extensive resources on patents, trademarks, designs, and copyrights, including guides, forms, and fee information.
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)
https://www.wipo.int
An international organisation that provides global services to protect IP across borders. The WIPO website offers a wealth of information on international IP law, treaties, and databases for patents, trademarks, and designs.
European Patent Office (EPO)
https://www.epo.org
This site offers resources on European patents, including application procedures, search tools, and legal texts. The EPO also provides an extensive database for patent searches.
Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA)
https://www.cipa.org.uk
A professional body for patent attorneys in the UK, CIPA provides information on finding qualified patent attorneys, educational resources, and updates on IP law.
Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys (ITMA)
https://www.citma.org.uk
Now part of the Chartered Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys, this organisation offers resources for those seeking professional advice on trademark protection in the UK.
Intellectual Property Lawyers’ Association (IPLA)
http://www.ipla.org.uk
An association of IP law firms in the UK, providing a collective voice on issues of IP law and policy. They offer resources and updates on current IP issues.
European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO)
https://euipo.europa.eu
Responsible for managing EU trademarks and registered Community designs. Their site includes resources for understanding and applying for EU-wide IP protection.
British Library Business & IP Centre
https://www.bl.uk/business-and-ip-centre
Offers free resources and support for small businesses and entrepreneurs, including workshops, one-on-one consultations, and access to IP databases.
Author
Gill Laing is a qualified Legal Researcher & Analyst with niche specialisms in Law, Tax, Human Resources, Immigration & Employment Law.
Gill is a Multiple Business Owner and the Managing Director of Prof Services - a Marketing Agency for the Professional Services Sector.
