As with patents, there are various types of searches commonly carried out in relation to designs, depending on the circumstances. Two common types of search are a novelty search and an infringement search.

A novelty design search is appropriate to assess whether a design is registrable. Such a search generally reviews designs that have been registered.

An infringement design search is for assessing whether anyone else has registered design rights that are in force and which may give rise to infringement risks if our client proceeds to use or commercially exploit a product which embodies the design. Such a search can be very useful, for example if our client is about to invest large sums in a production process, manufacturing equipment and do on, but wishes to check beforehand whether the production or manufacturing process will infringe someone else's rights.

A novelty or infringement design search is usually carried out using a combination of carefully product names and classes according to an international classification system.

There are other types of design search which may be useful in different circumstances. For example, it is possible to carry out a name search to assess whether one or more particular people or companies have registered designs.

Whether to carry out a design search and the type of search to carry out may depend on a number of different factors, and we can advise you about this, and we can give a cost estimate in most cases.

Please call us or email us to enquire about an obligation-free initial discussion or cost estimate for your matter. All communications are treated in absolute confidence. Click here  for our contact details.