Intellectual property rights – protecting intellectual property
Intellectual property law addresses and establishes the legal rights of several types of intellectual property – such as trade marks and artistic work. Here we’ve gathered the most important things companies need to know about Swedish intellectual property law, what it involves, and what is required to protect an intangible asset in all areas.
Protect your company's intellectual property in all areas
When you register a trade mark, design, or patent — or if you create something and automatically obtain copyright protection — straight away it becomes illegal for others to copy, promote, or otherwise exploit the protected asset. But, unfortunately, that doesn't stop malicious parties from trying anyway. To fully protect intellectual property, you will for example, secure with tools such as:
DIFFERENT areas OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS
What does intellectual property law consist of?
In the Swedish legal system, intellectual property law is divided into four different subcategories, which you can read about here.
Fundamental intellectual property law – an introduction
Intellectual property law is called the legal field that regulates the rights and protection of various types of intangible assets – that is, non-physical assets. The purpose of intellectual property rights is to protect the holder's exclusive rights to his assets, for a limited period of time. For example, the rights make it illegal for others to copy or otherwise exploit another party’s protected asset for their own gain – or with the intent to sabotage.
The responsible authority for intellectual property rights in Sweden is the Swedish Intellectual Property Office, PRV.
How are intellectual property rights obtained for a product or service?
For all categories, apart from copyright protection, you must apply for registration with the intellectual property office in the country or market where you wish to protect your asset. Protection can also be obtained through so-called establishment, but it takes significantly longer and is more cumbersome.
In short, the following applies to each subcategory of intellectual property law:
- Trademark protection
Registration usually takes 4-6 months from the time the application is received until the protection is fully completed. Once granted, trademark protection is valid for 10 years at a time, after which it can be extended for another 10 years for an unlimited amount of times. - Patent
The application and registration are announced after 18 months. The protection is then valid for a maximum of 20 years and cannot be extended other than for medicines and plant protection products. - Design protection
Protection is granted upon application to PRV or the intellectual property office in another country and is then valid for five years. An extension can be made for a maximum of 20 more years. - Copyright
Occurs as soon as a piece has been created and therefore does not need to be applied for. Copyright protection is then effective for 70 years after the owner's death.
The application process for intellectual property protection usually requires both time and a great deal of legal knowledge. The majority of companies choose to enlist the help of a representative with expertise in the field of intellectual property – like us at Abion, for example.
At Abion, we have all the skill, ability, and expertise required to help you ensure the most robust and advanced protection possible for your intellectual property.
Feel free to contact us and we’ll tell you more about our services and how we can be of help to your company!
SERVICES
Our range of legal services relating to intellectual property
FAQ about intellectual property rights
How can a business protect its trade secrets?
To protect its trade secrets, a business can implement non-disclosure agreements, conduct regular IP audits, and ensure that confidential information is only accessible to authorised personnel. Legal actions can be taken to address trade secret misappropriation.
Why is IP protection important for businesses?
IP protection is important for businesses because it safeguards innovations, provides a competitive edge, and encourages investment in new products and services, while also helping maintain brand recognition and consumer trust. Protecting intellectual property is key to the success and growth of a business.
What can I do as a customer that has had a bad e-commerce experience?
Abion is not able to help on consumer-related matters. If you have had a bad experience with an e-commerce company, you can consider the following actions:
- Contact Customer Service: Reach out to the company's customer service via phone, email, or their website.
- Use Social Media: Sometimes, posting on social media can elicit a quicker response.
- Escalate the Issue: Ask to speak to a manager or supervisor.
- File a Complaint: If needed, you can file a complaint with consumer protection agencies or better business bureaus.
- Know Your Rights: Familiarise yourself with consumer protection laws in your area, which may include rights to refunds, repairs, or replacements.
- Consumer Advocacy Groups: Seek help from local consumer advocacy organisations.
- Online Forums: Many communities exist where consumers share experiences and advice.
What are the consequences of IP infringement?
The consequences of IP infringement can include legal actions such as injunctions, damages, and the destruction of infringing items. Penalties can range from fines to prison sentences.
How do patents differ from copyrights?
Patents give legal protection to new inventions, while copyrights protect original works of authorship like literature, music, and software by granting exclusive rights to the creators.
Want to know more?
Contact us and we will help you!
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