Role of the Patent Lawyer in South Africa
February 3, 2010
Intellectual Property News and Interesting Facts
Oftentimes the terms Patent Lawyer, Patent Attorney or Patent Agent are used interchangeable. In short a person who wants to act as a patent lawyer in South Africa must be qualified in engineering and the law.
The patent lawyer acts on behalf of the client regarding patent filings and oppositions.
All legal aspects surrounding patents fall within the work scope of the patent lawyer. As such whether a person wishes to file a patent application, simply wants a patent search done, requires assistance with the setting up of a patent license agreement, or want to oppose a patent application, the patent lawyer should be the first stop.
Patent applications may go through when you apply directly, but you will also face the risk of several lawsuits or opposition if you have not done your research on its originality, usability, and the requirements as set out by the Patent Office for a patent to be valid. As such the first person to speak to before commencing with any application should be the patent lawyer.
2 Responses to “Role of the Patent Lawyer in South Africa”
does it have to be an engineering degree?? i have a Bsc(maths and Chemistry) and i am completing my honours in chemistry this year and i am considering being a patent lawyer… what is the next step that i should take and which universities in south africa are best for this type of specialisation
By Agi on Aug 6, 2011
Dear Agi, no you don’t need an engineering degree. The only requirement is that you have a technical degree, such as yours. For more information on the steps to follow and the admission requirements, you can visit http://www.saiipl.org.za. However, if you want to find out more, you are most welcome to contact us so that we can have a discussion on the career.
By Wessel van Wyk on Aug 8, 2011