Find Top Intellectual Property Lawyers Near You

Intellectual Property Lawyers

Intellectual property (IP) is a complex legal field that can sometimes result in lengthy legal and expensive disputes. The truth is, any business can get caught up in IP issues and it’s important to know about the type of services available and how they can assist you. 

If you have created something original and you want to ensure it's protected, it's best to engage a professional intellectual property lawyer. Intellectual property lawyers specialise in a number of services that will make the process of protecting your intellectual property significantly easier. It's important to note that legal fees can be expensive, so you need to consider whether there is sufficient value in protecting your IP.

Do I need an intellectual property lawyer?

If you believe your works are original and valuable it is vital to receive qualified legal advice. Registering your IP can be complex, especially if you want your property protected in multiple countries. Any legal action you take to protect your properties or to fight an opposing action should be conducted by a legal professional. 

What is an intellectual property lawyer?

IP lawyers are experts in intellectual property law and can carefully guide you through the process of protecting your IP. This may include advisory services, assisting you with selecting product/service names, trademark registration, patenting, business transactions and licensing deals. 

Another key part of their role is litigation. IP lawyers can represent you on a range of issues such as suing someone who is copying your intellectual property or responding to similar actions taken against you.

What does an intellectual property lawyer do?

Most intellectual property lawyers offer a comprehensive range of services including:

• Copyright protection: Copyright protection is used to protect creative works whether they be artistic, literary, intellectual or anything else. There is no central register for copyrighted works (unlike patents, for example) and copyright is obtained automatically when a work is created. Intellectual property lawyers can assist you in proving your ownership, drafting contracts, handling third party negotiations and preventing exploitation of your copyrighted work.
• Intellectual property audits: Audits are conducted by intellectual property experts to help you establish the current market value and demand for your assets. As with all business assets, IP asset value can change over time as the marketplace changes, so it is important to conduct IP audits semi-regularly.
• Intellectual property enforcement: IP enforcement includes both negotiation and legal action to resolve breaches of your intellectual property. IP lawyers can assist you in protecting your trademarks, patents, copyrighted works and designs.
• Intellectual property management: IP management is a suite of services that typically include ongoing assessment of IP value, strategic planning on how to utilise those assets and intellectual property law advice.
• Trademark registration: Trademark registration is handled by IP lawyers who can conduct availability searches and registration in over 200 countries. The process can be time-consuming and costly, so professional assistance is strongly recommended.
• Trademark protection: Trademark protection includes a number of actions including response to trademark opposition proceedings, negotiations with opposition, drafting contracts and litigation where necessary.
• Design registration: Domain registration offers you exclusive rights to use and license your designs and is an important first step in protecting your IP assets. IP experts will assess previous works for similarity to ensure your design is original.
• Design protection: Design protection includes taking legal action to prevent infringement and oppose similar designs, as well as responding to any similar actions taken against you.

How much does it cost to hire an intellectual property lawyer?

Intellectual property lawyers structure their fees either on a fixed fee basis, hourly basis or a combination of both. Experienced and reputable firms usually charge from $200 to $400 per hour, but this may exceed $1,000 depending on the complexity and size of the case. Fixed fee pricing can be advantageous for long-term relationships and businesses that need more certainty of costs.

Either way, an IP legal firm should provide you with an up-front estimate to give you a rough idea of how much specific services will cost. Some IP lawyers may also offer a free consultation to answer your questions, discuss your needs and determine the best options to move forward with your case. 

How do I hire an intellectual property lawyer?

When choosing an intellectual property lawyer you should find one with experience in your specific area and industry. The process for each type of intellectual property is different and finding a lawyer who has worked with people in your industry ensures they will be familiar with your unique business needs. Some important things to consider are:

• The type of IP they specialise in: Do you need assistance with trade secrets, patents, copyrights or trademarks? Each type is quite different so make sure they specialise in your issue.
• The scope of patent protection you need: Are they experienced in helping clients secure the extent and scope of patent protection you need?
• Their registration and credentials: Check they have the relevant qualifications and credentials to provide their services.
• Your budget: IP legal fees can be expensive so make sure you choose a lawyer that suits your budget.
• Location: Will you need to have face-to-face meetings? If so, choose a lawyer in or close to you.
• Their work ethic and personality: Gauge their working style and personality in your initial conversations. It’s important to get on with your lawyer as you’ll be working closely with them, often on complex issues. Ensure they have good communication skills.

If you’re looking to hire an intellectual property lawyer or would like a tailored quote, we can introduce you to IP lawyers in your area here on SavvySME. Simply answer a few questions to get started.