Searches for precedents and opinions on registerability

Priority searches involve a preliminary search on large databases with local to global territorial scope and analysis of the results. Priority searches indicate whether there are any existing designs or models that could be an obstacle to the registration of their design. This is why it is essential to conduct searches before the filing of models and designs, be they Italian, European or international. Jacobacci & Partners can help evaluate the registerability of the proposed design and, where necessary, help clients develop useful complementary or replacement solutions.

A client can gain many different benefits from undertaking priority searches. In addition to checking to see if a proposed design or model is novel, priority searches allow periodic monitoring of databases, which is the only way to become aware of new filings that may interfere with the models and drawings that the client owns. Moreover, searches for precedents provide a great overview of a specific technological sector.

Opinions on registerability can help with organizing data that emerges from the research and are a vital tool to assist the client with creating a plan that is the most suitable not only for the market but also for the specific needs of each single company.

There are manifold risks in failure to conduct searches, including those that arise before filing an application to register a design or model and when a product is about to be launched on the market, and including those that emerge during the life of the registration or product. Lack of attention to other filings and products can potentially damage a valuable company asset.