Patents are territorial.  So, if you apply for a UK patent that will give you the right to stop others from using your invention in the UK.  However, it would give you no rights to stop others using your invention in other countries.

Initial UK application potentially protects you everywhere

The initial UK patent application protects you worldwide for up to 12 months. If you want to extend that application internationally to other countries, such as the USA a simple way to do so is to file a Patent Co-operation Treaty (PCT) before the 12 months are up.

The PCT extends the global protection for a further 18 months

Choosing countries in which to apply for patents

The cost of patents may be particularly expensive in countries where a translation of the application must be filed at the outset. So, consider carefully in which countries you have a real commercial requirement for patent protection.

Is manufacture of your particular invention focused on a few particular territories so that the majority of competitors can be excluded by strategically seeking patents in those countries?

Used properly, the patent system should make you money overall because you will be able to license your inventions in return for royalties or prevent your competitors from using inventions which fall under your patents.

What next?

If you need legal work please call us on +44 (0)20 7700 1414 or if you prefer send us an enquiry using the form below. Depending on your requirements we may suggest a free meeting. This is often the best way to assess whether we would be the right firm for you, and to understand the work involved, your priorities, attitude to risk, and desired timescales.