Best Intellectual Property Lawyers in Japan

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Or refine your search by selecting a city:

Yokohama Patent Attorney Office

Yokohama Patent Attorney Office

Kanagawa, Japan

Founded in 2002
50 people in their team
Japanese
English
Compatible area We can respond anywhere in Japan, from nearby prefectures including Kanagawa, Tokyo, Saitama, Chiba, and Shizuoka. We are an international patent office that deals globally, from overseas to Japan, and from Japan to overseas.  Business content Intellectual property...
BrandAgent

BrandAgent

Kyoto, Japan

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Japanese
English
At the patent firm BrandAgent, we are made up of a team of patent attorneys who are experts in specific technical fields.Representative Patent Attorney Toru Kanono: Has extensive experience in patenting in the technical field of materials and structures.Patent Attorney Tomohide Tsuji (affiliated):...
Shibasogo Law Offices

Shibasogo Law Offices

Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Japanese
English
CorporateGeneral Legal Counsel / Legal Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance / Banking, Finance and Securities / M&ADispute Settlement, Litigation, ADRCivil Legal Practice / Collection of Claim / Real Estate / Traffic Accident / Inheritance / Domestic Affairs / Labor &...
Allegro IP Law Firm

Allegro IP Law Firm

Kanagawa, Japan

Founded in 2016
10 people in their team
Japanese
English
Allegro IP is a unique and exclusive Japanese intellectual property law firm that carries out the missions of supporting overseas clients’ business in Japan with IP rights.Although we are relatively a small boutique firm, we guarantee that experienced patent attorneys methodically handle patent...
Yokohama Partner Law Office

Yokohama Partner Law Office

Yokohama, Japan

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
Japanese
English
When I was little, I loved "The Crying Red Demon." This is a fairy tale by Hirosuke Hamada. Red Demon wants to get along with humans, but everyone is afraid of him. So, I put up a sign in front of my house to try to get people to come visit me.I am a kind-hearted demon.Anyone is welcome to come.We...
Iwatagodo Law Offices

Iwatagodo Law Offices

Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 1902
50 people in their team
Japanese
English
Iwata Godo Law Office was established in 1902 as a pioneering law firm specializing in corporate law in Japan, and was established in 1902 as the Minister of Justice, member of the House of Peers, chairman of the Japan Federation of Bar Associations, chairman of the Academic Society, etc. , was...
Tokyosanno Law Offices

Tokyosanno Law Offices

Minato, Japan

Founded in 2011
50 people in their team
Japanese
English
In the traditional Japanese society and economy, conflict resolution and prevention relied largely on human relations and administrative regulations, with the application of law through contracts and judicial procedures playing a secondary role. It was just a given.However, the opposite is true in...
MORRISON FOERSTER

MORRISON FOERSTER

Chiyoda-ku, Japan

Founded in 1883
5,000 people in their team
Japanese
English
Morrison Foerster transforms complexity into advantage. With our collective intelligence, we shape powerful legal strategies that move your business forward while living our shared values.We solve your most critical multidimensional challenges in a way that provides clarity around the risk you are...
MARKS IP LAW FIRM

MARKS IP LAW FIRM

Osaka, Japan

Founded in 2016
10 people in their team
Japanese
English
About UsMARKS IP LAW FIRM is a boutique intellectual property law firm specializing in all trademark matters with an office in Osaka & Tokyo, Japan, established in April 2016. We built on the cornerstones of providing high quality legal services and practical solutions to legal problems, in a...
K&L GATES

K&L GATES

Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 1946
5,000 people in their team
Japanese
English
The legal market is rapidly changing, and so is the practice of law. It is both science and art. Clients want their law firm to be diligent and meticulous, but they also want it to solve problems with innovation and creativity. At the heart of our ethos is an inclusive and collaborative...
AS SEEN ON

About Intellectual Property Law in Japan

Intellectual Property (IP) in Japan refers to a set of exclusive rights granted to creations of the mind, such as inventions, literary and artistic works, designs, and symbols, names, and images used in commerce. The purpose of these rights is to encourage innovation and creativity by providing creators with limited control over their creations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are various situations where you may need a lawyer specializing in Intellectual Property in Japan, such as:

  • Filing for a patent, trademark, or copyright
  • Enforcing your IP rights against infringement
  • Defending against claims of IP infringement
  • Negotiating licensing agreements
  • Handling disputes related to IP rights

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of Intellectual Property laws in Japan include:

  • Patents: Japan has a robust patent system, which offers protection for new and inventive inventions.
  • Trademarks: Trademarks in Japan are registered with the Japan Patent Office and provide exclusive rights to use a particular mark in connection with goods or services.
  • Copyrights: Copyright protection in Japan covers original literary, artistic, and musical works, as well as software and databases.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What types of IP can be protected in Japan?

In Japan, patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets are the primary forms of IP that can be protected.

2. How long does IP protection last in Japan?

The duration of protection varies depending on the type of IP. Patents are typically protected for 20 years, trademarks for 10 years (renewable), and copyrights for the lifetime of the author plus 50 years.

3. How do I enforce my IP rights in Japan?

You can enforce your IP rights in Japan through civil litigation, administrative procedures, or criminal prosecution, depending on the nature of the infringement.

4. Can I file for international protection of my IP in Japan?

Yes, you can file for international protection of your IP in Japan through various treaties and agreements, such as the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) and the Madrid System for international trademark registration.

5. How do I conduct a patent, trademark, or copyright search in Japan?

You can conduct a search for existing patents, trademarks, or copyrights in Japan through the Japan Patent Office's online databases or by hiring a professional search firm.

6. What is the process for filing a patent application in Japan?

The process includes preparing a detailed patent application, submitting it to the Japan Patent Office, undergoing examination, and potentially responding to office actions before the patent is granted.

7. How can I protect my trade secrets in Japan?

You can protect your trade secrets in Japan by implementing confidentiality agreements, restricting access to sensitive information, and taking legal action against unauthorized disclosure or use.

8. What are the penalties for IP infringement in Japan?

Penalties for IP infringement in Japan include injunctions, damages, fines, and imprisonment, depending on the severity of the infringement.

9. Can I license my IP rights in Japan?

Yes, you can license your IP rights in Japan through agreements that grant others permission to use your patented inventions, trademarks, or copyrighted works in exchange for royalties or other forms of compensation.

10. How can I resolve IP disputes in Japan?

IP disputes in Japan can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or litigation, depending on the parties involved and the nature of the dispute.

Additional Resources

For more information on Intellectual Property in Japan, you can visit the Japan Patent Office's website, the Japan Intellectual Property Association, or consult with a qualified Intellectual Property lawyer.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with Intellectual Property matters in Japan, it is advisable to contact a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer specializing in IP law to guide you through the process of protecting and enforcing your rights.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Japan through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Intellectual Property, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Japan—quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
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. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.