Patents

Since our founding in 1897 we have worked with and represented some of the world’s greatest innovators. We understand that patents are the driving force behind your business, not only in terms of protection but also as a commercial asset.

We work with our clients every step of the way from drafting applications, prosecuting infringement and dealing with validity issues to strategic advisory services. Our hands-on approach and client teams that comprise engineers working closely with attorneys at law ensures that the right skillset and legal knowledge is available and utilised for your innovations.

There is a reason why so many of our clients have been working with us for decades, like you we are nerds too and our specialist sector knowledge, technical backgrounds and our cross-border experience means we can understand your inventions and your business.

From start-up innovators, universities and research institutes to multi-national corporations, our patent team works to file, commercialise and enforce patents from our offices in Belgium, China, Denmark, Hong Kong, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland. We coordinate with our established and extensive network of partner firms to give you a truly global reach.

Knowledge is power which is why we have a range of patent intelligence services to help you get ahead including patentability opinions, freedom to operate, novelty search, infringement opinions, validity opinions and patent landscaping.

Whether it is European Patents, utility models, Supplementary Protection Certificates (SPCs), using the Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH), national patents or a Chinese design patent – our experienced team of patent professionals including European and China qualified patent attorneys can assist you.

Unitary Patents and the Unified Patent Court

The Unitary Patent and the Unified Patent Court will significantly impact the patent system in Europe. This change is expected towards the end of 2022 or in early 2023.

The Unitary Patent system aims to provide easier and affordable access to effective patent protection in the EU. Instead of a collection of national rights that require separate renewal, enforcement and in some cases translation, a Unitary Patent would be universal and singular within participating European states, reducing cost and time implications.

The Unified Patent Court will provide access to legal and technical judges and work according to streamlined procedures.

For European patent applicants or owners, it is time to inventory your IP portfolio and strategise whether your patents are more suited for the classic European system or the upcoming Unitary Patent system.

Please click here to view our dedicated page on the Unitary Patent System

Services

Experience

Isofol Medical – Global patent portfolio management and enforcement

ABD Safegate – Global patent portfolio management and enforcement