Best Patent Lawyers in South Africa

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SD Law

SD Law

Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2011
10 people in their team
Attorney Simon Dippenaar has a BBusSc LLB degree and Professional Diploma in Legal Practice from the University of Cape Town, and is an admitted...
Afrikaans
English
Barnard

Barnard

Pretoria, South Africa

Founded in 1998
200 people in their team
About BarnardBarnard Incorporated is a leading and full-service commercial law firm based in Pretoria, South Africa. We provide a comprehensive range...
Afrikaans
English
Engelsman Magabane Incorporated

Engelsman Magabane Incorporated

Kimberley, South Africa

Founded in 1948
50 people in their team
Protecting the Law Since 1948The firm was established in 1948 by HJ Stander and was originally known as HJ Stander and Partners, but has since...
Afrikaans
English
Bowmans

Bowmans

Cape Town, South Africa

Founded in 1885
1,000 people in their team
Who we areWe help our clients manage legal complexity and unlock opportunity in Africa.We have an enviable track record of providing legal services...
Afrikaans
English
Tabacks

Tabacks

Johannesburg, South Africa

Founded in 2000
200 people in their team
Our storyTabacks was started by Lourens van Staden, Mervyn Taback and Rupert Smith, when they decided to break away from Deneys Reitz (with Elize...
Afrikaans
English
Charl Goenewald

Charl Goenewald

Pretoria, South Africa

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
Charl Groenewald is an expert franchise lawyer and skilled litigator who is well renowned for his skills pertaining to franchise litigation and...
Afrikaans
English
Adams & Adams

Adams & Adams

Cape Town, South Africa

Founded in 1908
1,000 people in their team
Adams & Adams is an internationally recognised and leading African law firm that specialises in providing intellectual property and commercial...
Afrikaans
English
Matsaung Mafika Prestige Legal Pty Ltd.

Matsaung Mafika Prestige Legal Pty Ltd.

Pretoria, South Africa

Founded in 2020
10 people in their team
M.M Prestige Legal is a dynamic consulting firm offering a full range of legal services to both corporate and individual South Africans. Through our...
English
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About Patent Law in South Africa

Patent law in South Africa is designed to protect the rights of inventors and creators of new products and technologies. A patent grants the holder exclusive rights to their invention, preventing others from making, using, or selling the product without permission. To obtain a patent in South Africa, the invention must be new, involve an inventive step, and be capable of industrial application.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

You may need a lawyer for patent-related issues such as infringement, licensing, protection of intellectual property rights, and navigating the patent application process. A lawyer can provide legal advice, conduct patent searches, draft patent applications, and represent you in court if necessary.

Local Laws Overview

In South Africa, patent rights are governed by the Patents Act, No. 57 of 1978. The Act sets out the requirements for patentability, the rights of patent holders, and the procedures for filing and prosecuting patent applications. It is important to understand the local laws and regulations to protect your intellectual property rights in South Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a patent?

A patent is a legal right granted to inventors that allows them to exclude others from making, using, or selling their invention for a certain period of time.

2. How long does a patent last in South Africa?

In South Africa, a patent is granted for a period of 20 years from the filing date of the application.

3. What can be patented in South Africa?

Inventions that are new, involve an inventive step, and are capable of industrial application can be patented in South Africa. This includes products, processes, and improvements to existing technologies.

4. How do I apply for a patent in South Africa?

To apply for a patent in South Africa, you must file a patent application with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) and meet all the requirements for patentability.

5. What rights does a patent grant me?

A patent grants the holder the exclusive right to make, use, and sell the invention in South Africa. This prevents others from using the invention without permission.

6. Can I sell or license my patent?

Yes, patent holders can sell or license their patents to others. This allows them to profit from their invention without having to manufacture or sell it themselves.

7. What is patent infringement?

Patent infringement occurs when someone uses, makes, or sells a patented invention without the permission of the patent holder. This can result in legal action and damages for the infringing party.

8. How can a lawyer help with my patent application?

A lawyer can help with patent searches, drafting the patent application, responding to office actions, and ensuring that all legal requirements are met to obtain a patent in South Africa.

9. What happens if my patent application is rejected?

If your patent application is rejected, you have the opportunity to appeal the decision or make amendments to the application to meet the requirements for patentability.

10. How much does it cost to file a patent application in South Africa?

The cost of filing a patent application in South Africa varies depending on the complexity of the invention and the services required. It is important to budget for filing fees, attorney fees, and maintenance fees for the duration of the patent term.

Additional Resources

For more information on patent law in South Africa, you can visit the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC) website or consult with a registered patent attorney.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with patent-related issues in South Africa, it is recommended to consult with a qualified patent attorney who can provide guidance and representation throughout the patent process.

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.