IT and Software

Patent work in this sector is provided by attorneys from our electronics & engineering department. With knowledge of the different legal requirements around the world, and the strategies that work best, our attorneys have a good track record in securing patent protection in this technical area.

Whether software is tied to some particular hardware or is platform independent, it is possible that the 'computer program' exclusion from patentability in European patent laws will come into play.  In many circumstances, framing the invention suitably in the patent specification when it is first drafted will significantly help to persuade an examiner that the invention is not excluded from patentability. We have an enviable track record when it comes to the prosecution of patent applications in this field, despite the difficult legal issues.

Copyright protection is automatic for original software, both in source code and in compiled form. Database right protects compilations in numerous forms, and is especially relevant to electronic databases. Our attorneys are able to advise clients with respect to third party rights, and to advise in relation to infringement of their rights.