About Intellectual Property Law in Bucharest, Romania
Intellectual Property (IP) law in Bucharest, Romania is governed by both European Union and national legislation designed to protect creations of the mind. This includes inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, symbols, and commercial names and images. The system is generally faithful to international standards and is outlooked by OSIM (State Office for Inventions and Trademarks).
Why You May Need a Lawyer
Navigating through IP law can be complex and requires professional expertise, particularly in cases involving potential infringement or when seeking to patent your works across borders. You might need a lawyer if you aim to apply for patents, trademarks and designs, initiate IP-related transactions or contracts, navigate through IP-related disputes, or protect your rights against intellectual property infringement.
Local Laws Overview
Key aspects of local laws relevant to IP in Bucharest include the Law No. 64/1991 on Patents, the Law No. 8/1996 on Copyright and Neighbouring Rights, and the Law No. 84/1998 on Trademarks and Geographical Indications. The law provides specific guidance on registration processes, duration, criteria for various IP rights and remedies for infringement. Significant emphasis is placed on counterfeiting, piracy and other forms of IP infringement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the duration of a patent in Romania?
In Romania, a patent lasts for 20 years from the filing date of the application. However, for medicinal products and phytosanitary products, the patent can be extended by a 'Supplementary Protection Certificate' for up to five years.
Are foreign works protected under Romanian IP law?
Yes, foreign works are protected in Romania if they are protected in their country of origin, ensuring that international copyrights are respected within Romania.
Does Romania follow a first-to-file or a first-to-invent system?
Romania follows a first-to-file system, which means the right to a patent for an invention belongs to the first person to file an application, regardless of who the actual inventor was.
Can a trade secret be protected in Romania?
Yes, trade secrets can be protected in Romania under the Law No. 350/2007 regarding the Protection of Information not Publicly Known. This protection exists as long as the secret has commercial value, is not widely known, and has been kept confidential by the owner.
Can copyrights be registered in Romania?
Copyrights in Romania arise automatically upon creating the work and do not require registration. However, works can be voluntarily registered with the Romanian Copyright Office to help in future legal disputes.
Additional Resources
Useful resources include the Romanian Copyright Office, The Romanian Office for Copyright (ORDA), and the State Office for Inventions and Trademarks (OSIM). The European IPR Helpdesk and the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) can also provide guidance and support on European regulations.
Next Steps
If you need legal assistance regarding Intellectual Property, consider seeking advice from IP professionals or a specialized IP law firm. Before any commitment, ensure that they are experienced in Romanian IP law, and they fully understand your specific needs and situations. Also, you may consider using the resources mentioned above for initial research and inquiries.
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The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
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