Category Archives: German law

GPTO: Increase of Official Fees on May 1, 2022 and July 1, 2022

The German Patent and Trademark Office (GPTO) will increase on May 1, 2022 and July 1, 2022, respectively, the annuity fees for patents and supplementary protection certificates (SPCs). Annuity fees can be paid one year in advance at the GPTO. … Continue reading

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Corona: Closures and Extensions of Time Limits at Patent and Trademark Offices

In the following table, closures and extensions of time limits at the most important patent and trademark offices are summarized (as of April 21, 2020): Country Two letter code Status Notification Canada CA Extension of time limits until May 1, … Continue reading

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Federal Supreme Court Confirms Nivea Blue

Beiersdorf AG, manufacturer of Nivea, won a ruling from Germany’s Federal Supreme Court (BGH) that gives it a second chance to defend its trademark for the blue color on its Nivea products in a legal battle with Unilever NV (court case … Continue reading

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Interview: Incentives to Innovate

Interview with Dr. Dirk Franke. The following topics are covered: the future of the profession of a European patent attorney, patent litigation costs, trivial patents; how to find a qualified patent attorney, EU patent (unitary patent), changes in the European … Continue reading

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Priority Documents: Formalities and Time Limits in Germany and Europe

Many applicants of patents, trademarks or designs in Europe or Germany have questions concerning the formalities and time limits for having the priority claim of a previously filed application confirmed. The formalities and time limits for submitting either a priority document … Continue reading

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