IP Pro Bono scheme launched
A scheme to offer free legal advice and support to trade mark and patent holders in legal disputes has been launched
A scheme to offer free legal advice and support to trade mark and patent holders in legal disputes has been launched.
IP Pro Bono has been designed to help small businesses and individuals involved in disputes about intellectual property including trade marks, protected designs, patents and copyright, who can not reasonably afford to pay for professional advice.
ITMA President Kate O’Rourke, who has been involved in setting up the new scheme, said: “It is important for all small businesses and individuals to have access to representation in IP disputes. This scheme brings that option to those who are otherwise unable to pay, which is why I’m pleased to have been involved with this project and will be looking forward to seeing the benefit it brings.”
IP Pro Bono is a collaboration between a number of leading IP organisations including ITMA, the Chartered Institute of Patent Attorneys (CIPA), the International Property Lawyers’ Association (IPLA) and The Law Society.
The scheme was set up in response to a challenge set by His Honour Judge Hacon, presiding judge of the Intellectual Property Enterprise Court, for IP legal services providers to offer advice and support to unrepresented claimants and defendants in IP disputes.
Acting Chief Executive of the Intellectual Property Office Sean Dennehey said: “I am delighted to mark the launch of this new service. I am sure that the service will prove invaluable to those businesses struggling to afford the costs of professional representation. I am pleased that the IPO has been able to support the initiative and I look forward to hearing progress of the service.”
The service is available to those who cannot reasonably afford to pay for professional advice from a firm. A case officer will assess applications and, if the applicant meets the stated criteria, allocate the case to one of the participating firms on a rota basis.