Menu ☰
Seppo Laine

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

G4/19 – the EPC contains basis for the prohibition of double patenting

G4/19 – the EPC contains basis for the prohibition of double patenting

The Enlarged Board of Appeal of the European Patent Office determines the legal basis for prohibition of double patenting in its decision G 4/19.

News | 29.6.2021
MIP STARS 2021 | Laine IP as a Tier 1 Patent Prosecution firm in Finland

MIP STARS 2021 | Laine IP as a Tier 1 Patent Prosecution firm in Finland

Laine IP has again been recognized with the highest ranking in its category as a Tier 1 Patent Prosecution firm in Finland, and also has been recognized as a Recommended Trade Mark Prosecution firm in Finland.

News | 23.6.2021
Ceipi Summer School on IP in Europe

Ceipi Summer School on IP in Europe

The seminar is aimed at European and non-European students, IP attorneys and lawyers. It covers protection of various industrial property rights in Europe, but also for example court practices and the effect of EU legislation on IP.

News | 21.6.2021