Additional IP protection to compliment your Trademark
Patent Protection Advisory
To the extent that your technology or product involves technological novelty, we recommend considering the filing of patent application(s) to protect its functional and technical aspects. Filing patent applications can help safeguard against others making, using, or selling your invention without permission and strengthen your overall IP protection strategy. Please let us know if you would like to explore this option further. Patents can be filed for any novel and non obvious invention, whether a device, method, or process, to prevent unauthorized use. While patents typically involve more time and cost compared to other forms of IP protection, they provide broader legal enforcement options and significantly enhance your product’s value, your company’s competitive edge, long-term market position and valuation.
Design Protection Advisory
To the extent that your product has not yet entered the public domain and has reached a final design stage (design freeze), we recommend considering the filing of design application(s) to protect its aesthetic aspects. Filing design applications before the publication of your PCT application can help safeguard from copying the visual appearance of your invention and enhance its overall IP protection strategy. Please let us know if you would like to explore this option further and if so contact your patent attorney. Designs can be filed for any device and/or user interface to prevent others from copying same. Designs are typically cheaper than patents, are granted faster and are easier to enforce and in that sense substantially add depth and strategy to your patent portfolio and product value and company valuation.
Trade Secret Protection Advisory
Not all innovations should be protected in the same way. Some inventions are best safeguarded through patents, providing exclusivity in exchange for public disclosure, while others may be more valuable as trade secrets, remaining undisclosed to maintain a competitive advantage.
However, protecting trade secrets requires careful planning. A well-drafted trade secret description similar in quality and scope to a patent application, can strengthen its legal standing. Additionally, anyone exposed to the trade secret should sign a dedicated agreement explicitly committing to confidentiality. Such measures significantly enhance enforceability of the trade secret, particularly in cases of deliberate leakage of the trade secret, such as by a former employee. Strategic IP management ensures that your innovations remain secure while maximizing their commercial value and company valuation. If you need guidance on the best approach for your technology, please contact your patent attorney.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this webpage does not constitute legal advice and is intended for general informational purposes only. Information on this webpage may not reflect the most up-to-date legal developments or other information. The webpage contains links to other third-party websites for convenience purposes only. Ehrlich Group assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content of this page.