Design Rights
Design rights protect the appearance of a product, from its shape and surface decoration to patterns and packaging. If you have created something distinctive, you need to make sure it is properly protected. We help you secure and enforce your design rights in the UK and internationally. Whether you are registering a new design, relying on unregistered rights, or dealing with copying, we will guide you clearly and confidently.
Filing UK and EU registered design applications
If you have a unique design, we can assist you in gaining the full range of protection by applying for design right protection. We handle the full process of filing and managing UK and EU registered design applications. We make the system straightforward and ensure your design receives the broadest protection available.
Advice on unregistered design rights
Unregistered design rights arise automatically in certain circumstances. We assess whether your design qualifies and advise whether registration would give you stronger, longer lasting protection.
Drafting design licences and assignments
Whether you want to unlock the full value of your designs by licensing them to a third party, or you are looking to use someone else’s designs for your own commercial gain, we’ll make sure the licence or assignment reflects your objectives and protects your position.
Supporting product development to secure protection
We support you from the earliest stage of the design process to make sure your product meets the legal criteria for the level of design protection you want. Getting this right at the start can save you time, cost and disruption by avoiding expensive redesigns once the product has been finalised.
Enforcement and defence of design infringement claims
If someone copies your product’s appearance, we act quickly. We provide practical advice and take firm action where needed, in a cost effective and timely manner. If you are facing a claim, we defend your position robustly and strategically.
Questions we’re often asked
Registration provides lengthier and more robust protection.
A UK registered design can last for up to 25 years. You must renew it every five years to maintain protection.
Design infringement focuses on the overall impression created by a product. If someone copies your design, we can assess your position and advise on the right response, including issuing takedowns or letters of claim depending on the situation.
Yes. Early disclosure can affect your ability to register a design. It is always best to seek advice before sharing your design publicly or commercially.
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For more information or a no obligation discussion, please call or email our team today.
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