Best Patent Lawyers in Marousi

About Patent Law in Marousi, Greece

Patent law in Marousi, Greece, is designed to protect inventors by granting them exclusive rights to their new inventions for a limited period. This protection encourages innovation and investment in new technologies. Marousi, being a business and technology hub in the Athens metropolitan area, has become an important location for individuals and companies interested in patent registration, enforcement, and commercialization. The Greek legal system, adhering to both national and European Union frameworks, administers patents through specific procedures and requirements, ensuring that inventors maintain control over their inventions and receive recognition for their creativity.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Seeking a specialized patent lawyer can be crucial in many situations, including:

• Filing a patent application to protect your invention
• Conducting prior art searches to ensure your invention is novel
• Responding to objections or oppositions from patent authorities or third parties
• Dealing with patent infringement, whether you need to defend your rights or respond to infringement claims
• Drafting licensing agreements or selling your patent rights
• Managing international patent protection through the European Patent Office or World Intellectual Property Organization
• Navigating complex ownership or co-inventor disputes

Legal advice ensures proper handling of all patent procedures, increases the likelihood of successful registration, and helps defend your intellectual property rights effectively.

Local Laws Overview

Patent law in Marousi operates under the Greek Patent Law (Law 1733/1987) and harmonizes with European Union regulations. Key aspects include:

• The Hellenic Industrial Property Organisation (OBI) manages the application process and grants patents in Greece.
• A patent is generally granted for a new invention that involves an inventive step and is capable of industrial application.
• Patents are valid for 20 years from the application date, subject to annual renewal fees.
• Certain categories, such as discoveries, scientific theories, mathematical methods, and computer programs as such, are excluded from patentability.
• Patent protection gives the owner exclusive rights to prevent others from making, using, or selling the patented invention in Greece without permission.
• Litigation over patent rights falls under the jurisdiction of special courts in Athens, but many patent attorneys operate in Marousi and can initiate proceedings on your behalf.
• European patents and international applications filed via the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT) can be validated in Greece through OBI.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a patent and what does it protect?

A patent is an intellectual property right that gives the inventor exclusive control over a new, useful, and non-obvious invention, allowing them to prevent others from using, making, or selling the invention without permission in Greece.

Who can apply for a patent in Marousi, Greece?

Any individual or legal entity with a new invention can apply for a patent. Applications are usually submitted to OBI in Athens, but local lawyers and patent agents based in Marousi can assist with the process.

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

The examination process can take from several months up to a few years, depending on the complexity of the invention and whether there are any oppositions or requests for amendments.

What inventions cannot be patented in Greece?

Inventions that are contrary to public order or morality, discoveries, scientific theories, mathematical methods, schemes, rules for games, and methods for business or computer programs as such cannot be patented.

Do I need to have a working prototype to apply for a patent?

No, a prototype is not required. The application must, however, describe the invention in sufficient detail so that someone skilled in the field can reproduce it.

How can I find out if my invention is already patented?

Conducting a prior art search through the Hellenic Industrial Property Organisation or other international patent databases is recommended. Patent lawyers often assist with these searches to assess novelty.

What happens if someone infringes my patent rights?

You can take legal action to stop the infringer and claim damages. An attorney can guide you through negotiations, warning letters, and, if necessary, litigation in Greek courts.

Are Greek patents valid internationally?

No, patents granted by OBI are valid only within Greece. However, you can seek wider protection through the European Patent Office or by filing an international application under the PCT.

Can software be patented in Greece?

Software per se is not patentable, but inventions involving software may be patentable if they provide a technical solution to a technical problem and meet other patentability criteria.

What fees are involved in the patent process?

Fees include the application fee, examination fee, grant fee, and annual renewal fees. Lawyer and translation fees may also apply, especially for non-Greek applicants.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or assistance, consider the following resources:

• The Hellenic Industrial Property Organisation (OBI): The official body for patent registration and information in Greece
• European Patent Office (EPO): For obtaining European-wide patent protection
• Greek Ministry of Development and Investments: Provides guidance on industrial property rights
• The Athens Bar Association: Useful for finding specialized patent attorneys near Marousi
• Greek Chamber of Commerce & Industry: Offers seminars and support for businesses on intellectual property matters

Next Steps

If you believe you need legal assistance with a patent issue in Marousi, here is how to proceed:

• Identify and document your invention or legal concern in detail
• Gather relevant technical, legal, and business documents
• Contact a qualified patent lawyer or agent who practices near Marousi for an initial consultation
• Discuss your goals and concerns, including seeking advice on searches, drafting, filing, and enforcement strategies
• Request an estimate of costs and timelines before proceeding
• Stay actively involved in the process and respond promptly to requests from your lawyer or patent authorities

Taking these steps will help protect your invention and ensure your rights are respected both locally and internationally.