A patent serves as an important asset for your company in Munich or anywhere else. This is because it certifies a so-called right of prohibition: it prohibits unauthorized third parties from using your invention, thus protecting your inventive contribution and its exploitation possibilities. If, for example, other companies in your competitive field infringe the patent, you can take legal action against them. If a patent infringement is found, you can assert claims against the infringing company. The two classic claims are the right to injunctive relief and the right to claim damages for the unauthorized use of the patented idea. As your patent attorney in Munich, Weickmann provides you with professional and precise support in obtaining your property right and, if necessary, enforcing it against unauthorized use.
Patent law precisely describes the requirements for ideas that can be protected by a technical property right. The basic prerequisite for this is that the invention is of a technical nature. This is because patents, like utility models, protect the technical aspect of inventions. In addition, inventions must be commercially viable, i.e., they must enable monetary gain. A comprehensive procedure is used to thoroughly examine whether these requirements are met. As patent attorneys in Munich, we prepare for this examination meticulously and are a reliable partner for our clients when it comes to the individual procedures of patent law.
As patent attorneys in Munich, we also examine your invention closely because we want to work with you to develop the best strategy for protecting it. This involves providing strong support throughout the application and granting process. But it also concerns possible supplementary applications that the law offers to extend the protection of your idea. In some countries, another option is to use a utility model as a supplementary property right. Although it has a shorter term, it can be implemented quickly – and is therefore an effective means of protection when protection is needed quickly. In the field of pharmaceuticals or plant protection products, a supplementary protection certificate can, under certain conditions, protect inventions for longer. Adequate trademark and design protection is also an important element of a solid intellectual property portfolio.
As patent attorneys in Munich, we recommend consulting with patent law experts. Only specialists who are familiar with both national and international patent and trademark regulations can offer the tailored protection that you, as an applicant or inventor, are looking for. We examine your invention to determine the optimal protective measures and explain the differences between traditional patents and other forms of protection, such as utility models, trademarks, and designs. We then assist you with the procedure you have chosen. Your patent attorney in Munich will, of course, also provide you with comprehensive advice and support if patent infringements have already occurred. Schedule your consultation appointment now!
Filing an application with the DPMA costs approximately 310 EUR in official fees; including attorney fees, the total typically ranges from 2,000 to 5,000 EUR. The total cost depends on the complexity and scope of the application.
A patent protects inventions for up to 20 years following examination; a utility model is registered without substantial examination and is valid for a maximum of 10 years.
A national application filed with the DPMA typically takes 2–3 years to be granted; a European application filed with the EPO takes 3–5 years.
Yes. Weickmann handles PCT applications for protection in over 150 countries, as well as direct European applications filed with the EPO, which is headquartered in Munich.
SPCs extend patent protection for pharmaceuticals and plant protection products in the EU by up to five years and compensate for time lost due to approval procedures.
