Patents
Because inventions play a crucial role in the society progress, the technological advancement, the economic development and the improvement in quality of life, LEX MERCAT strives to help inventors at every stage of protecting their inventions.
Preliminary search : the firm ensures that the invention is eligible for a patent. Patents are generally granted for inventions that are new, that involve an inventive step and that have industrial applicability.
Prior art search : before filing a patent application, the firm performs a prior art search wherever possible, to ensure that the invention is new and that no similar patent has already been granted.
Drafting the patent application : the IP Agent or IP Engineer prepares the patent application and may assist in clarifying the description of the invention to ensure quality and scope.
Filing the patent application : the patent application is then filed with the National Office. It can be filed as a national application and/or as an international application (via the PCT system).
Examination of the application : The National Office examines the application to ensure that it meets criteria for patentability. The applicant, via the IP Representative or the IP Engineer, may have to respond to objections or make amendments to the application during the process.
Patent publication : once the application has been accepted, the patent is published and becomes publicly available.
Maintenance of the patent : It is essential to pay annual maintenance fees to ensure validity of the patent.
Enforcing the patent : If a third party appropriates or uses the patent without the owner’s consent, the applicant, assisted by his IP Agent or IP Engineer, can take legal action to enforce his rights.