Best Patent Lawyers in Japan

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MARKS IP LAW FIRM

MARKS IP LAW FIRM

Osaka, Japan

Founded in 2016
10 people in their team
About UsMARKS IP LAW FIRM is a boutique intellectual property law firm specializing in all trademark matters with an office in Osaka & Tokyo,...
Japanese
English
CITY-YUWA PARTNERS

CITY-YUWA PARTNERS

Chiyoda-ku, Japan

Founded in 2003
50 people in their team
City Yuwa Law Office was established in February 2003 through the merger of Tokyo City Law and Tax Office (legal department) and Yuwa Partners Law...
Japanese
English
Yamamuratadao Law Office

Yamamuratadao Law Office

Kyoto, Japan

Founded in 1990
50 people in their team
Our firm was established in April 1990 by attorney Tadao Yamamura with the aim of providinghigh quality and highly satisfactory legal services to a...
Japanese
English
M. IDE & CO.

M. IDE & CO.

Chiyoda-ku, Japan

Founded in 1995
50 people in their team
M. IDE & Co. is a firm located in Tokyo, Japan, specialising in counsel and representation in the procurement of patents, trademarks and other IP...
Japanese
English
BrandAgent

BrandAgent

Kyoto, Japan

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
At the patent firm BrandAgent, we are made up of a team of patent attorneys who are experts in specific technical fields.Representative Patent...
Japanese
English
MASUDA & PARTNERS LAW OFFICE

MASUDA & PARTNERS LAW OFFICE

Chiyoda-ku, Japan

Founded in 2008
50 people in their team
Masuda & Partners Law Office was established in February 2008, led by founding attorney Eiji Masuda. Since that start, our firm has been involved...
Japanese
English
SHUSAKU YAMAMOTO

SHUSAKU YAMAMOTO

Osaka, Japan

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
What it means to serve our clientsBecause of the breadth, depth and diversity of technological and legal experience of the SHUSAKU·YAMAMOTO team, we...
Japanese
English
MORRISON FOERSTER

MORRISON FOERSTER

Chiyoda-ku, Japan

Founded in 1883
5,000 people in their team
Morrison Foerster transforms complexity into advantage. With our collective intelligence, we shape powerful legal strategies that move your business...
Japanese
English
Shibasogo Law Offices

Shibasogo Law Offices

Tokyo, Japan

Founded in 2000
50 people in their team
CorporateGeneral Legal Counsel / Legal Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance / Banking, Finance and Securities / M&ADispute Settlement,...
Japanese
English
Tokyosanno Law Offices

Tokyosanno Law Offices

Minato, Japan

Founded in 2011
50 people in their team
In the traditional Japanese society and economy, conflict resolution and prevention relied largely on human relations and administrative regulations,...
Japanese
English

About Patent Law in Japan

Patents in Japan are granted by the Japan Patent Office (JPO) and provide inventors with exclusive rights to their inventions for a certain period of time. The purpose of patents is to protect inventions and encourage innovation by granting inventors the right to exclude others from making, using, selling, or importing their patented inventions.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer for patent issues in Japan if you are facing any legal challenges related to obtaining, enforcing, or defending a patent. A lawyer can help you navigate the complex patent application process, respond to office actions, enforce your patent rights against infringers, or defend against allegations of patent infringement.

Local Laws Overview

In Japan, patent protection is granted to inventions that are new, inventive, and industrially applicable. The patent term in Japan is 20 years from the filing date of the application. Japan also recognizes utility models and design patents, each with its own requirements and protection scope.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I apply for a patent in Japan?

You can apply for a patent in Japan by filing a patent application with the Japan Patent Office. The application must include a detailed description of the invention, any relevant drawings, and claims that define the scope of protection sought.

2. How long does it take to obtain a patent in Japan?

The time it takes to obtain a patent in Japan varies depending on the complexity of the invention and the workload of the Japan Patent Office. On average, it takes about 2-4 years from the filing date to grant.

3. How much does it cost to obtain a patent in Japan?

The cost of obtaining a patent in Japan can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the invention, the number of claims, and the attorney fees. On average, it can cost several thousand dollars to obtain a patent in Japan.

4. How can I enforce my patent rights in Japan?

You can enforce your patent rights in Japan by filing a lawsuit for patent infringement in the Japanese courts. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and seek remedies such as damages or injunctive relief against infringers.

5. How can I defend against allegations of patent infringement in Japan?

If you are accused of patent infringement in Japan, you can defend against the allegations by challenging the validity of the patent, proving non-infringement, or seeking a license to the patented invention. A lawyer can help you develop a defense strategy and protect your interests.

6. Can I file a patent application in Japan if I have already filed in another country?

Yes, you can file a patent application in Japan within one year of filing an application in another country, under the Paris Convention. This allows you to claim the priority of the earlier application and extend protection to Japan.

7. Can I license my patent rights in Japan to others?

Yes, you can license your patent rights in Japan to others through a licensing agreement. A licensing agreement allows you to grant permission to others to use, make, or sell your patented invention in exchange for royalties or other compensation.

8. What is a patent search and why is it important in Japan?

A patent search involves checking existing patents and published applications to determine if an invention is novel and non-obvious. In Japan, a patent search is important to assess the patentability of an invention and avoid potential conflicts with existing patents.

9. How can I monitor and protect my patent rights in Japan?

To monitor and protect your patent rights in Japan, you can conduct regular patent searches, monitor competitors' activities, and take prompt legal action against infringers. A lawyer can help you develop a patent protection strategy tailored to your specific needs.

10. What are the consequences of patent infringement in Japan?

The consequences of patent infringement in Japan can include injunctions to stop infringing activities, monetary damages to compensate for the infringement, and court costs. Repeat infringers may face criminal penalties such as fines or imprisonment.

Additional Resources

For more information on patents in Japan, you can visit the Japan Patent Office website (https://www.jpo.go.jp) or seek guidance from the Japan Intellectual Property Association (JIPA) or a local patent attorney.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with patents in Japan, it is recommended to consult with a qualified patent attorney who is familiar with Japanese patent law and procedures. A patent attorney can provide tailored advice and representation to protect your patent rights and navigate the complex legal landscape in Japan.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.