Renewals
Streamlined and hassle-free renewals, for peace of mind
Trusted, seamless renewals - globally
As a specialist IP law firm with decades of experience, you can trust our expert renewals team to simply take care of business, making your life easier. Our approach to renewals is straightforward and accurate, and our global buying power gives you great value without compromising on quality.
With the ability to offer patent, trade mark and design renewals globally, we can provide you with hassle-free portfolio management and significant cost savings.
Flexible approach, built around you
We build our service around your unique needs and preferences. We work in all major European languages, offer instructed or automatic payments and invoice in GBP, EUR or USD.
Instruct us directly through your dedicated account manager, our experienced renewals team or our online portal, which provides access to your full renewals portfolio in just a few clicks.
Expert IP renewals service
We provide:
• Dedicated account manager
• Free portfolio onboarding*
• Free portal access
• Choice of automatic or instructed payments
• Transparent, predictable pricing
• Flexible reminders & invoicing
*Data integrity audits available.
Talk to us to find out more.
Meet the Team
FAQs
What is a patent renewal?
A patent renewal is the process of extending the validity of a patent beyond a specific timeframe, ensuring its protection for an extended period. In most jurisdictions, patents are initially valid for 20 years from the filing date. However, to maintain exclusivity and enforceability throughout this entire period, patent holders are required to pay periodic fees, commonly referred to as renewal fees or maintenance fees. These fees contribute to the continuous support and maintenance of the patent, safeguarding its rights and benefits for the inventor or assignee. By fulfilling the obligation of patent renewal, patent owners can ensure the longevity and value of their intellectual property.
Can the patent renewal fees vary?
Yes, the cost of patent renewal fees can vary significantly between jurisdictions and increase over the life of the patent. You should budget for these costs when considering the overall expense of obtaining and maintaining a patent.
When should I renew my patent?
The timing for patent renewals varies by jurisdiction. Renewal fees are generally due annually, and payment is usually required from the third or fourth year onwards from the filing date. However, it is crucial to be aware of the specific rules of the patent office where your patent is registered, as they vary from country to country
What is the process for renewing a trade mark?
To renew your trade mark, you must submit an application to the respective intellectual property office in your country. The renewal application can sometimes be completed online and usually requires details of the trade mark and payment of a renewal fee; however, in some countries, you may require documents to support your application, like a power of attorney or samples of use of the trade mark. Renewal of trade marks is typically done every ten years, although there are exceptions.
It is important to keep your trade mark registration current as it ensures that you maintain exclusive rights over the use and profit of the mark. Failure to renew a trade mark may lead to other businesses using the same or similar marks without permission, resulting in possible legal action against them.
When should I renew my trade mark?
Trade marks generally need to be renewed every ten years, but this can vary depending on your jurisdiction. It's essential to track the expiry date of your trade mark to ensure timely renewal.
In the United Kingdom, trade marks are valid for ten years from the filing date. You can renew your trade mark up to six months prior to the expiry date. However, the UK Intellectual Property Office does offer a six-month grace period following the expiry date, during which the trade mark can still be renewed, albeit with payment of an additional late fee.
Similarly, in the European Union, trade marks are valid for ten years and can be renewed indefinitely every ten years. The renewal request can be submitted six months before the expiry date, with a grace period of six months post-expiration, subject to late renewal fees. Please note that after the end of the grace period, if the trade mark has not been renewed, it will be removed from the register.