Intellectual Property Solicitors - Why They Are Worth Every Penny

By Tom Pearson
Intellectual property (IP) is anything which has been created in the mind of an individual that is protected under IP law. Included in the list of what is protected are songs, written works, designs, inventions and symbols. The means by which people can protect themselves against others copying their intellectual creations come in a number of forms. The most common types are copyright, design rights, trademarks and patents.

IP is one aspect of commercial law that has a large relevance to a lot of companies. Without realising it many companies deal with intellectual property rights on a daily basis. In some cases the ignorance of the rights that others have over a particular design, piece of text or even symbol can cause very complicated and stressful legal issues.

IP law is a very complicate area of commercial law. The lines between copyright or design right infringement and the simple evolution of a design are very ill defined. In order to decide whether copyright has been infringed there often have to be a set number of differences in the design. The number and definition of these differences is something which very much depends on each individual case.

Disputes over whether copyright or a patent has been infringed can have huge implications for the companies involved. If a company is found guilty of infringement then the damages that are incurred can be very substantial. If you are having issues with IP law then by far the best way to address them is to find good intellectual property solicitors to offer advice and representation. Due to the distinctions between intellectual property right infringements being so ill defined, experience counts for everything. Often the only way to get any bearing on whether IP has been abused is to use cases that have gone before as a guide.

In situations like this the experience of specialist intellectual property solicitors will shine through. Using a non specialist solicitor, even if they have extensive experience in commercial or corporate law, will leave you at a distinct disadvantage, both in the lead up, and in the courtroom itself. Another reason to use specialist intellectual property solicitors is the level of service they will provide. Their particular understanding of IP law will mean that they are far better qualified to explain the situation to you. With this greater understanding of your situation you will be able to make better informed decisions, as well as feeling much more relaxed about the legal situation you are in. When the stakes are so high, using the most experienced and knowledgeable intellectual property solicitors possible will make the whole process far less stressful for you.