RM Legal advises businesses and designers on the protection of the visual and aesthetic aspects of products. We assist in securing and enforcing design rights to prevent unauthorised copying and imitation, particularly relevant for product-driven and consumer-facing businesses.
What We Do
Our work includes:
- Design searches and registrability assessment
- Filing and prosecution of design applications
- Advisory on design protection strategy
- Identification of risks of infringement and copying
- Coordination with foreign counsel for international design protection
Our Approach
Design protection is centred around the visual appeal of a product. We work with clients on:
- Identifying protectable elements of product design
- Structuring filings to maximise scope of protection
- Aligning design protection with product launch and market strategy
Our focus is on ensuring that the design is not only registered, but effectively protected in the market.
When to Consider Design Protection
- Launch of a new product with unique visual appearance
- Introduction of new packaging or product configuration
- Expansion into competitive markets with risk of imitation
- Products where design is a key differentiator
Process Overview
While each matter is unique, design protection typically involves the following:
- Assessment of novelty and registrability
- Preparation and filing of design application
- Examination by the design office
- Registration and publication
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