IP Protection & Management
Intellectual property (IP) assets are becoming increasingly vital to the success of any business venture, as it provides IP owners with exclusive rights to use and commercialise their creations for profit. Many businesses possess various types of IP rights that should be protected. These rights exist in different forms such as trade names and logos, artwork featured in brochures, photographs of merchandise, proprietary designs, and innovative inventions. Examples of these rights includes:
Registrable IP
- Trade Marks: A sign used to distinguish the goods or services of one business from another. This can include business names, logos, product names.
- Design: The ornamental or aesthetic features of a product, such as its shape, pattern, or colour.
- Patent: Protects an original invention that is novel, has a non-obvious inventive step, and is capable of industrial application.
- Geographical Indicator (GI): A sign used to identify a product as originating from a particular geographical location and possessing certain qualities or characteristics that are associated with that location. Examples of GIs include Champagne, Parmigiano Reggiano, and Darjeeling tea.
- Plant Variety Rights: New varieties of plants that are distinct, uniform, and stable.
Non-Registrable IP and Intangible assets
- Trade secrets: Confidential information that provides a business with a competitive advantage. This can include formulas, processes, and other proprietary information of a business.
- Copyrights: Original creative works, such as literary, dramatic, musical, and artistic work.
- Know-how: technical knowledge and expertise that a business possesses. This can include specialized manufacturing techniques, research and development processes, and other proprietary information.
- Data: Information that is stored in physical or electronic format. This can include customer data, sales data, and other types of business-related data.
- Software Codes: Source code that are used to create software programs.
- Layout Designs of Integrated Circuits: The way that the components of an integrated circuit are arranged in three dimensions. An integrated circuit is a small electronic circuit made up of numerous components, such as transistors, resistors, and capacitors. It’s worth noting that the terms “integrated circuit”, “semiconductor”, and “silicon chip” are often used interchangeably, as commercial ICs are typically produced using silicon semiconductors.
Securing Registration Through Effective IP Filing Strategies
At Yuen Law, we understand that registering your intellectual property (IP) can be a complex and daunting process. Depending on the type of IP, such as Trade Marks, Designs, Geographical Indicators, and Plant Varieties, the registration procedures can vary.
Our team of experts can assist you in navigating the registration process both locally in Singapore and globally through our extensive network of foreign firms.
We can help you develop filing strategies that include conducting pre-filing clearance searches to minimize the risk of objections or oppositions. We also take into consideration enforcement issues to ensure that your IP portfolio is strong and not easily challenged or worked around, which could render your IP registrations ineffective.
Management of Non-Registrable IPs
In addition to registration, we also provide guidance on managing non-registrable IPs. We work closely with our clients to develop customized strategies that align with their unique business objectives and provide proactive guidance on IP protection through contractual means.
Yuen Law is known for its expertise in Intellectual Property Law. Our experienced team, led by Associate Director, Tris Xavier, is dedicated to assisting you with all aspects of Intellectual Property registration. Whether you are seeking to register your IP locally in Singapore or globally, we have the knowledge and network to help protect your valuable IP assets.
Please reach out to us and schedule an appointment to discuss your IP needs. We are ready to work with you and help safeguard your intellectual property.
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