IP Insight
Edition 56, November 2011
Who owns that menu?
A restaurant, with a well-known proprietor, has recently been accused of copying another restaurant's menu and branding in what is an increasingly challenging area of IP law.
Changes to United States Patent Law
On the 16th of September 2011, US President Barack Obama signed into law the America Invents Act (also known as the Patents Reform Act of 2011) introducing a number of substantial changes into the US patents system.
Overseas Patents
A granted UK patent can stop others making, selling or using your invention in the UK, but has no influence elsewhere. Consequently you may feel that you need to apply for patent protection in one or more countries abroad so that you can prevent others from making, selling or using your invention in those countries.
Guide for managers on IP infringement
Intellectual Property (IP) Rights - trade marks, copyright, designs and patents - are infringed when a product, creation or invention protected by IP laws are exploited, copied or otherwise used without having the proper authorisation, permission or allowance from the person who owns those rights or their representative.
Power to your brand
If your name is part of your business plan, then you want to be sure that you have first claim on it. A trade mark will give you the power to crack down on any imitators of your brand or your packaging.
IP in the news
Another batch of IP related stories which have attracted media attention over the past month.
Your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about IP issues and strategies.