IPR basics

What are patents, trademarks and design rights? How does one apply for them, and what do I need to know beforehand? Check out this series of articles from our experts for a rundown on the basics of IPR.

Patent

A patent protects your invention. It is an exclusive right that allows you to restrict others from exploiting your invention commercially.

Trademark

A trademark is a sign that distinguishes the products and services of your company from those of your competitors, functioning as a distinctive symbol in the market.

Utility model

A utility model is a fast way to protect your invention. Similar to a patent, it enables you to restrict the commercial use of your invention by others.

Design right

A design right protects the industrial design of your product, or a part or detail of it. A registered design is an exclusive right that allows you to prohibit others from using your design.

Unitary Patent

A Unitary Patent (UP) is a new type of European patent that has unitary effect in the member states of the EU participating the Unitary Patent system.

Frequently asked questions

Our patent attorneys answer the most commonly asked questions – such as, can one patent a software program, and what is the difference between the ® and ™ symbols?

News

WTR 1000 rankings for 2021 published: Laine IP in the top-tiers with Tom-Erik Hagelberg as recommended expert

Laine IP’s trademark practice has been recognized in the top-tier of the 2021 edition of World Trademark Review 1000 with the following remarks…

News | 16.2.2021

Laine IP Oy’s clients’ had a strong year in 2020 in obtaining patents

We are pleased to announce that our firm was the representative of record for our clients on: 134 granted European (EPO) patents; 77 issued US patents; and 73 granted Finnish patents in 2020.

News | 22.1.2021

Update | Oral proceedings at the EPO

In November we published a brief article about EPO’s new practices relating to oral proceedings. Some changes came into effect with the new year, namely with respect to Boards of Appeal and hearing of witnesses.

News | 20.1.2021