Role of Advocates in Intellectual Property

November 16, 2008
Intellectual Property News and Interesting Facts

Advocates are instructed by attorneys and appear in the major cases in the courts of South Africa such as the high courts and the supreme courts.

When it comes to intellectual property advocates also have a role to play. In case of an issue becoming a litigation issue that must be argued in a high court, the lawyer or attorney will instruct the advocates to do so on behalf of the client. It should be noted that the clients cannot appoint advocates themselves, but must work through appropriate lawyers or attorneys who will do so when the need arises.

Patent lawyers normally have working relationships with advocates that specialize and have extensive experience in intellectual property and will thus ensure that the client receives the best possible litigation representation in court.