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Design rights

A design right can be registered or unregistered. The right arises automatically on creation of a design, similar to the way copyright works. The same design right can be registered and will then enjoy both forms of protection.

What sorts of designs and objects are protected?

Basically anything relating to the physical appearance of an object - which can be almost anything from art works and designer clothing to crockery and furniture - including its:

  • shape
  • lines or contour
  • configuration
  • materials
  • pattern or texture
  • colour

What designs are registerable?

For registration designs must be:

  • novel, i.e. not the same as or similar to a design which has already been registered or made public
  • more then purely functional, even though it does not have to be aesthetically pleasing

Protection

UK and European Community registered designs last for 5 years from application and the period can be renewed 4 times. Registration gives you the exclusive right to make, sell, distribute and licence the design and gives you a right of action against infringers.

Enforcement

In the case of infringement we offer a full dispute resolution and litigation service and can take appropriate action to protect your rights.

Contact Us

To contact our Intellectual Property Team please call the number below or email one of our team.

Call 01392 207020

Email: Jill Headford | Guy Cartwright