Best Patent Lawyers in Australia

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Gibsons Solicitors Pty Ltd
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 2006
50 people in their team
English
OverviewGibsons is one of Australia’s premier law firms dedicated to providing high quality Litigation and Commercial Law services in a wide range of matters - including intellectual property, defamation and privacy, business litigation, breach of contract, entertainment and media and counterfeit...
Canaan Lawyer
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 2006
50 people in their team
English
About usWelcome to Canaan Lawyers  At Canaan Lawyers we focus on giving our clients a commercial advantage by providing high quality legal services in a practical and cost effective fashion.  At Canaan Lawyers we focus on giving our clients a commercial advantage by providing high quality...
Belperio Clark Lawyers
Adelaide, Australia

Founded in 1992
30 people in their team
English
About Belperio Clark LawyersCharlie Belperio and Bev Clark started Belperio Clark in 1992. We have grown over the years, but still maintain the focus and personal touch of a small legal practice. At Belperio Clark, our goal has always been to make your situation as stress-free as possible. Our...
MST Lawyers
Mount Waverley, Australia

Founded in 1950
200 people in their team
English
ABOUT MST LAWYERSMST Lawyers is a progressive law firm comprising some 60 dedicated Lawyers and support staff. MST has grown from a small firm originally founded in the 1950s, into a dynamic mid-tier commercial and private client legal practice.Our clients include individuals, entrepreneurs and...

Founded in 2014
5 people in their team
English
CMI Legal is a Sydney based law firm established in 2014 that provides advice across business, migration and contract law for entrepreneurs, SMEs and individuals. The practice is known for practical, commercially focused guidance delivered in plain language, and for a client-centered service...
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 2018
2 people in their team
English
Sui Juris Lawyers is a multilingual boutique firm offering comprehensive legal and migration services across Australia. Founded in 2018 by Marta Nottidge, the Principal Solicitor and founder, the firm has quickly established itself as a leading Sydney practice across a diverse range of specialties....
Squire Sanders
Sydney, Australia

Founded in 1886
5,000 people in their team
English
About usSquire Patton Boggs is a full service global law firm providing insight at the point where law, business and government meet, giving you a voice, supporting your ambitions and achieving successful outcomes. To view our legal notices, please visit: https://bit.ly/2L5RKMz. With a...
Holding Redlich
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 1962
500 people in their team
English
At Holding Redlich, great law is our starting point. Across our offices in Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane and Cairns we provide a complete range of legal services for clients of all sizes including many of Australia’s largest public and private companies and all levels of...
J. King & Associates
Melbourne, Australia

Founded in 1999
25 people in their team
English
About Us Jamie King2019 to presentMember of the Law Institute Commercial Litigation Advisory Committee.2002Graduated as Master of Commercial Law from the University of Melbourne.1999Commenced the legal firm J King & Associates.1998Accredited by Law Institute of Victoria as a Commercial...
Dobson Mitchell Allport
Hobart, Australia

Founded in 1834
200 people in their team
English
About usDobson Mitchell Allport is a leading Tasmanian law firm. Our experienced lawyers and advocates act for business, government and individuals. We provide innovative and expert services to our business, private and government clients. Our services extend further than just providing legal...
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About Patent Law in Australia

The patent system in Australia provides inventors with exclusive rights to their inventions, allowing them to commercialize their ideas while preventing others from making, using, or selling the patented invention without permission. Patents can be granted for new inventions that involve an inventive step and have industrial applicability. The system is managed by IP Australia, the national agency responsible for intellectual property rights.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Seeking legal advice in patent law is often essential due to the complex nature of intellectual property rights and the application process. Common situations where a lawyer may be needed include:

  • Submitting a patent application: A lawyer can assist in drafting and filing to increase the chance of approval.
  • Dealing with patent infringements: Whether defending against or pursuing infringement actions, legal expertise is critical.
  • Negotiation and licensing: Lawyers can help negotiate licensing agreements and ensure favorable terms.
  • Portfolio management: For businesses managing large numbers of patents, legal counsel can help strategize and protect all intellectual property effectively.

Local Laws Overview

Patent law in Australia is governed by the Patents Act 1990. Key aspects include:

  • Patent Types: Australia recognizes standard patents, lasting up to 20 years, and innovation patents, which are no longer available for new applications since 2021 but still exist for existing patents.
  • Patent Criteria: Invention must be novel, involve an inventive step, and be useful.
  • Examination Process: This includes a formalities check, followed by a detailed examination for compliance with legal standards.
  • Opposition Period: Once a patent is accepted, there is a nine-month period during which objections can be submitted.
  • International Applications: Australia is part of the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT), facilitating multi-country patent protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a patent?

A patent is a legal right granted to inventors, giving them exclusive rights to use, sell, and license their inventions.

How long does it take to get a patent in Australia?

The process can take several years due to examination, potential objections, and amendments required during the application process.

What cannot be patented?

Schemes, abstract ideas, purely mental processes, and non-technical discoveries are not patentable.

What is an innovative step?

An innovative step means the invention must not be obvious to someone skilled in the field of the invention, representing some technical advancement.

Can software be patented?

Software can be patented if it offers a novel and inventive solution to a specific technical problem.

Do I need a lawyer to file a patent?

While not mandatory, hiring a lawyer is advisable for navigating the complex legal and technical requirements in filing a patent application.

What happens if someone infringes on my patent?

You can initiate legal action against the infringer to secure damages and possibly obtain an injunction against further unauthorized use.

Can I sell my patent?

Yes, patents can be sold or licensed, allowing others to use the invention under agreed terms.

How can I protect my patent internationally?

You may use the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) process to seek protection across member countries.

What happens to a patent after it expires?

Once a patent expires, the protected invention enters the public domain, allowing anyone to use it without infringement.

Additional Resources

For those needing additional assistance, the following resources can be useful:

  • IP Australia: The government agency managing intellectual property applications and providing guidelines.
  • Australian Legal Information Institute (AustLII): Provides access to Australian legislation and case law.
  • Patent Attorneys Network: Includes contacts for registered patent attorneys for professional advice.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with patents, consider the following steps:

  • Consult with an intellectual property lawyer or a registered patent attorney to discuss your specific needs and circumstances.
  • Gather all documentation related to your invention, including any prior art searches or existing intellectual property documentation.
  • Consider your long-term strategy for protecting and monetizing your invention.
  • Engage with professional organizations or networking events to connect with other inventors and industry professionals.

By being proactive and informed, you can better navigate the patent landscape in Australia and safeguard your innovative ideas effectively.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Australia 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 Patent, 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.

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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.