Insights

With the imminent entry into force of the Unified Patent Court Agreement, the countdown has begun to opt-out of the jurisdiction of the new European court. Marie-Noëlle de la Fouchardière explains what can be opted out, by whom and how to simplify the management of opt-out declarations.

In November 2022, the European Commission published a proposal to update current EU design law to adapt it to the digital age. Noa Rubingh outlines the proposed changes and the road to implementation. 

EUIPO's Cancellation Division declared the trademark registration for Banksy's Monkey image invalid on the grounds of bad faith in spring 2021. In October 2022, that Banksy trademark decision was overturned based both on the absence of bad faith and the image’s distinctiveness, as Rosan Slits explains.

From producer to grape variety, vintage and alcohol level, wine labels can tell you a lot about the wine you are about to drink. Depending on the origin of the wine, certain mandatory wine labelling requirements apply. 

A recent finding of invalidity against sports brand Puma provides a valuable reminder of the need to obtain design registration within the designated 12-month grace period – and to be careful of accidental publication online.

Whether you choose to file a patent application or keep a new invention secret, it’s crucial to take steps to minimise the risks of disclosure. Rose-Marie Ehanno explains how to keep patentable inventions confidential.

When deciding on your IP enforcement and protection strategy, both the 'sword' and 'shield' functions of trademarks must be kept in mind, says Laura Morrish.

Must a compound be shown to be suitable for each disease for first medical use claims to be sufficiently disclosed in applications for European patents, asks Matthieu Boulard. 

A new edition of the Nice Classification system for international trademark registration will become available on 1 January 2023. We outline the changes and their implications for trademark applicants.