Other IP Protections
Design law
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Courtesy of Cornell Design League |
Design law is an area in which there is absolutely no substitute for seeking the advice of a lawyer.
Not only is European design law different from U.S. law, but countries within Europe also have their own unique rules. This might impact your decision about where to base your business. If your business is international in scope, you should investigate IP laws in each country on a regular basis.
Here are just a few examples of design law in Europe.
US apparel designers have distinguished themselves in sportswear and functional design rather than haute couture. The lack of special design laws in the US to complement copyright, trademark, and patent laws is partly a result of these specialties.
The continuing evolution of the World Trade Organization rules are a major factor affecting international design laws.
Again, a lawyer's advice is indispensable in dealing with these issues.
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