Monthly Archives: October 2013

Revised German Patent Act: More Flexibility for Applicants

A revised German Patent Act will enter into force on April 1, 2014. This has been announced by the German Patent and Trademark Office (GPTO) in a press release on October 24, 2013. With the revised German Patent Act important … Continue reading

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Amended Rules for European Divisional Applications: Consequences and Strategic Considerations for Practitioners

According to an announcement of the EPO, new rules for filing European divisional applications will enter into force on April 1, 2014. The new rules will have the consequence that for all European patent applications pending on April 1, 2014, … Continue reading

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Rule 36 EPC: New Time Limits for Filing Divisional Applications at the European Patent Office

The European Patent Office (EPO) has finally bowed to the pressure of many applicants for a European patent and will introduce new rules governing the filing of divisional applications. As has been announced by the EPO on October 18, 2013, … Continue reading

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WIPO MM1 Form: Any Use for this Form?

What is the WIPO MM1 form recommended by WIPO for  filing international trademark applications under the Madrid Agreement? The information sheet of the WIPO website states the the WIPO MM1 form must be used for international trademark registrations which are … Continue reading

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International Trademark Registration

The Madrid System of international trademark registration is a multinational system for simplifying the administrative procedures of extending trademark protection from one originating country to a number of foreign countries. Its legal basis is the Madrid Agreement Concerning the International … Continue reading

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Employee’s Inventions: Check-List for Preparing the Initial Meeting with the Patent Attorney

Many times, inventors and start-up entrepreneurs realize they need professional help in order to protect their inventions before the patent office. This is a good realization to have, as early as possible. Unfortunately, not too many inventors and start-up entrepreneurs … Continue reading

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Search Tools for Patents and Trademarks

The following search tools are provided by national and international patent and trademark offices and can be used free of charge for searching of patents, designs and trademarks: 1. Search Tools for Patents The following search tools can be used … Continue reading

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