Defending your business against IP infringement

Photo by Henry Hustava on Unsplash

Words by Dr Martin Douglas Hendry

Introduction

As a large UK business, it's important to protect your intellectual property (IP) from infringement. Not only can IP infringement damage your reputation and potentially lead to financial losses, but it can also hinder innovation and growth within your business.

In this blog, we'll outline some key steps you can take to defend your business against IP infringement, and ensure that your IP is adequately protected.

Understand what IP is and what is protected

First and foremost, it's important to understand what constitutes IP and what is protected under UK law. IP refers to creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, names, and images used in commerce.

Under UK law, the following types of IP are protected:

• Patents: protect inventions and new technology
• Trade marks: protect brand names and logos
• Copyrights: protect literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic works
• Designs: protect the appearance of a product

It's important to be aware of what IP your business holds and ensure that it is adequately protected.

Use contracts and NDAs to protect your IP

One effective way to protect your IP is to use contracts and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) to regulate how your IP is used and shared.

For example, if you are working with a third-party vendor or collaborating with another business, you can use a contract to specify how your IP can be used and to ensure that it is not used in ways that are not authorized. Similarly, you can use NDAs to protect confidential information related to your IP.

Monitor for IP infringement

Another key step in protecting your business against IP infringement is to regularly monitor for potential infringement. This may involve conducting regular searches for similar or identical IP, as well as monitoring for unauthorized use of your IP on the internet and in the marketplace.

If you do discover potential IP infringement, it's important to take action quickly to protect your rights. This may involve contacting the infringing party and demanding that they cease the infringing activity, or pursuing legal action if necessary.

Consider registering your IP

In some cases, it may be advisable to register your IP with the appropriate authority in the UK. This can provide additional legal protection and make it easier to enforce your rights if your IP is infringed upon.

For example, you can register trade marks with the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) and patents with the UK Patent Office. This can provide additional legal protection and make it easier to take action against infringers.

Work with a lawyer

Finally, it's important to work with a lawyer who has expertise in IP law. A lawyer can provide advice and guidance on protecting your IP, as well as help you take action against infringers if necessary.

By working with a lawyer, you can ensure that your IP is adequately protected and that you are able to take action to defend your rights if your IP is infringed upon.

To speak to our team, click the button below to leave an enquiry and get in touch.

Get in Touch

Conclusion

In conclusion, protecting your business against IP infringement is crucial for the success and growth of your business. By understanding what IP is and what is protected under UK law, using contracts and NDAs to regulate the use of your IP, monitoring for potential infringement, registering your IP, and working with a lawyer, you can effectively defend your business against IP infringement.

PEOPLE ALSO ASK...

Look at our other guides that relate to this topic here.

Best practices for trade mark disputes in the world of business

How to avoid trade mark infringement

Accused of copyright infringement? What to do next

ABOUT VIRTUOSO LEGAL?

Virtuoso Legal is a team of intellectual property specialists based in Leeds and London - operating worldwide. Virtuoso Legal's team of IP experts have successfully tried cases in the IPEC, High Court, Court of Appeals and United Kingdom Supreme Court. In addition, the team assist companies in creating, commercialising and protecting the big ideas that make their business unique. The firm and its professionals are ranked yearly in legal directories such as the Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners, cementing their status as a Top 2% law firm in the world.

--

​The content on this website, including FAQs and legal posts, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction, and specific advice should always be sought for individual circumstances. Virtuoso Legal is not responsible for any losses arising from reliance on this content. For tailored advice, please contact us at 0113 237 9900 or enquiries@virtuosolegal.com.