Best Patent Lawyers in Piraeus

About Patent Law in Piraeus, Greece

Piraeus, Greece follows the patent laws laid out by the Hellenic Industrial Property Organization. These laws are in cohesion with international patent laws and are designed to protect inventions ranging from products, machines, processes, or improvements to existing processes. They allow owners exclusive rights to produce, use, and sell the patented invention for a stipulated period of time.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Developing and profiting from a new invention can be complicated. Patent laws are complex and navigating them can be challenging. Hiring a lawyer could be necessary in situations such as understanding patent eligibility, drafting and filing a patent application, defending your patent rights against infringement or if you are accused of infringing on somebody else's patent rights. Professional assistance can prevent costly mistakes and protect your intellectual property in a foolproof manner.

Local Laws Overview

Patent applications in Greece must be submitted to the Hellenic Industrial Property Organization (OBI). The patent grant process involves several stages like application, publication, substantive examination, and registration. The application must include specifications about the invention, claims, and an abstract, among other things. Patents in Greece are granted for 20 years from the filing date. However, to maintain the patent, annual fees are required to be paid from the second year of filing. An invention must be novel, useful, and non-obvious to be patentable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the patent application procedure take in Greece?

The patent application procedure can take four to five years depending on the complexity of the invention and the smoothness of the process.

Does Greece use the first to file or first to invent system?

Greece follows the "first to file" system. This means the patent rights are granted to the first person to file an application regardless of who actually made the invention first.

Can a rejected application be appealed against?

Yes, a refusal decision by the OBI can be appealed at the Administrative Court of First Instance in Athens.

Can a patent granted in Greece be extended worldwide?

A patent granted in Greece is only valid within Greece. To protect an invention internationally, separate patent applications need to be filed in countries or regions where protection is sought or an international patent application can be filed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT).

What is the language requirement for a patent application in Greece?

The patent application must be filed in the official language, which is Greek.

Additional Resources

The official body governing patent rights in Greece is the Hellenic Industrial Property Organisation (OBI). The European Patent Office (EPO) online services can also be utilized for understanding and filing patents in member countries including Greece. Legal firms specializing in patent law could provide professional help throughout the process.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in patent matters in Piraeus, Greece, consider hiring an attorney specializing in patent law. Before hiring, make sure the professional is well-versed with the local and international patent laws, has a thorough grasp of the technical domain relevant to your invention, and is proficient in drafting and defending patent applications.