A patent provides a temporary monopoly for a technical invention.

A patent enables the owner to stop others making, selling or importing the invention for the duration of the patent, which can be up to 20 years from filing.  It is therefore a valuable strategic asset that can act as both a deterrent and an enforceable legal right. 

Our expertise is in preparing the patent specification, which needs to carefully explain and define your invention, and representing you before the UK and/or European Patent Offices.  The procedure is fairly complex and in practise requires the services of an expert to ensure all requirements are met and that any protection you do get meets your commercial needs.  

We also work with a network of overseas patent attorney firms to help clients get corresponding protection in countries of interest.

A key requirement for getting a valid patent is that the invention is not already in the public domain. It is therefore important you contact us before disclosing your idea publicly. Another requirement is that the invention is non-obvious; the idea need not make a quantum leap over known technology but trivial or straightforward differences will not confer patentability. 

If you have an idea that you would like to patent, we recommend you call us initially so that we can discuss whether your idea is likely to be patentable. We also offer a free initial meeting at which we will advise in more detail and take you through the process and likely costs involved.