This week on the Tech Law Hangout, host Jordan Becker discusses foreign patent protection including factors one should consider in deciding which inventions are worth pursuing foreign patent protection for, and where to pursue foreign patent protection highlighting the country-specific nature of patent rights.  Jordan shares the basics of different mechanisms available for foreign patent filing including direct filing, the Patent Cooperation Treaty, and the European Patent Convention.  He also discusses the importance of understanding the differences between countries’ patent laws and requirements and other foreign intellectual property rights related to patents, such as utility models. 

“It’s important to understand that patents are country-specific.  This means you need to apply for a patent in each country in which you want protection.” – Jordan Becker