EU Registered Designs

Europe-wide protection, made easier

An EU registered design (formerly Community Design) is a single unitary right in all member state countries. That is a huge market for a single, inexpensive IP right.

However, to get the full value from your application, you need to get the right protections and use the filing process to your advantage. For example, if you’re looking to protect the mechanism of a product, you’ll need a patent. To protect the way its distinctive appearance, you need a registered design.

Although the filing and application process is fast, with only a quick formalities examination, and can last between five and 25 years, it’s worth considering your approach to save costs. Filing several designs in one application can cut down your filing fees, for example. Also, EU designs are registered and published shortly after filing. If you want to keep your design a secret, you can get a deferment for up to 30 months.

Our thorough understanding of the process means we can adapt it to your specific requirements and get you the right protections for both now and in the future

Design rights

In the UK and the EU, we have some unregistered IP rights known as “design rights” or “unregistered designs”. You don’t need to file anything to get these. They apply as soon as you design a product or put it on the market. The rules can be quite complex, but the rights are free of charge and offer protection, regardless of whether you have filed a registered design.

They don’t last as long as registered designs, and you must prove that someone else has copied them for a successful enforcement. However, they can be very useful.

We have the legal expertise to help you navigate the complex world of unregistered designs. Plus, we’ll help you take action against those who have copied your products.