Searching databases of existing patents, trademarks and designs can help determine whether you have developed something new, which is then able to be registered. Having a comprehensive search carried out prior to applying for an IP right can avoid wasting time and money if the right already exists.
Searching can also identify if you are infringing the existing intellectual property rights of others. Based on the findings of the infringement search (also commonly referred to as a “Freedom to Operate” search), we can advise on your freedom to exploit the IP right in a particular country.
Adams Pluck can assist with the following types of IP searching:
- Patent Novelty Searches – useful in establishing whether your invention is likely to be patentable;
- Trade Mark and Design Registrability Searches – useful in establishing whether your mark or product design is likely to be registrable;
- Patent, Design and Trade Mark Infringement Searches – useful to establish whether you are you likely to be infringing an existing IP right if you commercialise your mark, invention or product design in a particular country;
- Invalidation Searches – useful in locating prior art that may be used to invalidate an existing IP registration.
