IPR basics

What are patents, trademarks and design rights? How does one apply for them, and what do I need to know beforehand? Check out this series of articles from our experts for a rundown on the basics of IPR.

Patent

A patent protects your invention. It is an exclusive right that allows you to restrict others from exploiting your invention commercially.

Trademark

A trademark is a sign that distinguishes the products and services of your company from those of your competitors, functioning as a distinctive symbol in the market.

Utility model

A utility model is a fast way to protect your invention. Similar to a patent, it enables you to restrict the commercial use of your invention by others.

Design right

A design right protects the industrial design of your product, or a part or detail of it. A registered design is an exclusive right that allows you to prohibit others from using your design.

Unitary Patent

A Unitary Patent (UP) is a new type of European patent that has unitary effect in the member states of the EU participating the Unitary Patent system.

Frequently asked questions

Our patent attorneys answer the most commonly asked questions – such as, can one patent a software program, and what is the difference between the ® and ™ symbols?

News

Season’s Greetings

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Our office is closed 24.-26.12.2024.

News | 20.12.2024

New EPAC-paralegal, Heli Alasaari, at Laine IP

Heli Alasaari passed the difficult EPAC-exam, as a second candidate at Laine. Read more:

News | 18.12.2024

Referral G2/24 – Can the alleged infringer continue the appeal proceedings on their own?

A new referral to the Enlarged Board of Appeal of the EPO concerning the status of an alleged infringer in appeal proceedings.

News | 16.12.2024