Patents
What is a Patent?
A patent is a monopoly, granted for a particular jurisdiction that prevents all other parties from making, offering, using or importing a patented invention. Examples of patentable inventions include a new configuration of power converter, an improved telecommunications switch, a new computer program that improves data storage capacity, a new process to manufacture a biofuel or an improved process to recycle waste. Essentially, patents relate to technical inventions. Patents can last up to 20 years from the filing date of the patent application and after 20 years the patented technology becomes available for others to use.
At O'Connor Intellectual Property, we have extensive experience drafting, filing and successfully prosecuting Irish, UK, European and International patent applications. Our role during the application process is threefold. First, we thoroughly analyse your invention and advise whether or not your invention is suitable for patent protection and if so, what is the best way to protect your invention. Second, we draft a patent application that will provide you with the broadest possible protection for your invention. Third, we file the patent application at the relevant patent office and guide that patent application through the examination process for you.
Our work doesn’t stop there though, we also advise clients on patent infringement and validity issues. So whether you have been threatened with patent infringement proceedings, are worried that you might infringe a patent, or wish to challenge the validity of a patent, we are here to help.