Albright IP Limited

Protecting your innovation

+44 (0)1242 691 801

Speak to a UK and European Patent and Trade Mark Attorney

  • Korean
  • Japanese
  • Simplified Chinese
  • Traditional Chinese
Menu
  • Home
  • About Us
    • Close
    • About Albright IP
    • How We Work
    • Our Values
    • Sectors
    • The Story So Far
    • Attorneys
    • Careers
    • Testimonials
      • Close
      • What They Say
  • Patents
    • Close
    • Overview
    • UK Patents
    • European / Euro-PCT Patents
    • International Patents
    • US Patents
    • Product Development
    • Patent Infringement
    • Patent Opposition
    • Costs
    • FAQs
  • Trade Marks
    • Close
    • Overview
    • UK Trade Marks
    • European Trade Marks
    • International Trade Marks
    • Trade Mark Infringement
    • Trade Mark Opposition
    • Costs
    • FAQs
  • Designs
    • Close
    • Overview
    • UK Designs
    • European Designs
    • International Designs
    • Costs
    • FAQs
  • Infringement
    • Close
    • Patent Infringement
    • Trade Mark Infringement
  • Opposition
    • Close
    • Patent Opposition
    • Trade Mark Opposition
  • IP Strategy
    • Close
    • Obtaining Protection
    • Enforcing Your Rights
    • Defending an Infringement Action
    • Intellectual Property Insurance
    • The Patent Box
    • Your competitors’ IP
    • IP Audits Plus
  • Brexit
    • Close
    • Brexit News
    • Brexit Attorney Update
  • Articles
    • Close
    • Blog
    • Figure 1 Magazine
    • Videos
    • Albright in the News
  • Contact

Copyright

 

Copyright is another form of intellectual property protection, like patents, designs and trade marks. Unlike those others, there is no examination process for deciding whether to ‘allow’ copyright in a work. The main requirement is that a work is original, and the threshold for ‘originality’ is set quite low in the UK. If you have expended effort in creating a work, then it is most likely protected by copyright, if it is one of the types of ‘work’ that is covered by copyright. Unfortunately, copyright infringement is relatively commonplace, compared to other kinds of infringement.

 

If you need advice on copyright and preventing others from taking advantage of works you have created, please contact us for an initial discussion. The following sections give a brief introduction to UK copyright law.

 


Copyright Overview

 

What is copyright?

 

Copyright is a property right, meaning it can be owned in the same way as tangible property. Copyright automatically subsists in an original work upon its creation. Examples of copyright works include literary, dramatic, musical or artistic works, as well as sound recordings, films and broadcasts. Copyright infringement is possible if the content of the copyright work is used without permission.

 


 

How do I register my copyright in the work(s) I have created?

 

Copyright cannot be registered in the UK (or most other countries), although we recommend keeping records enabling the date of creation of a work to be easily determined.

 

Note also that ownership of copyright is not transferred by virtue of commissioning work, and this should be borne in mind when engaging designers and the like. Instead, an assignment of the copyright from the designer, for example, is required for you to own the copyright in a work you commission.

 


 

What else should I know about copyright?

Whilst copyright does not need to be registered, there are still limits on whether copyright exists in a work, and how long copyright lasts if it does.

 

Please explore the following sections for further introductory details concerning UK copyright.

 

Copyright and Unregistered Design Right

Copyright protects original artistic works. UK unregistered design right can be used to protect original non-artistic designs as well as some artistic works. The question of whether an article is a work of artistic craftsmanship has to be carefully determined to decide whether the article is protected by copyright or unregistered design right, or perhaps both.

Note also that whilst unregistered design rights are useful, they are relatively short term, and should not be considered a substitute for registered rights. Furthermore, licences of right are available in the last 5 years of protection, which means that a licence on reasonable terms must be granted, if requested by another party.

If you do intend to rely on unregistered design right, then you should make sure that you keep accurate records of design creation. It is also helpful to keep dated copies of your competitor’s brochures and any other available literature.

For more information, please contact us by calling +44 (0) 1242 691 801 to speak with one of our attorneys.

Authorship and ownership of copyright

Not all works are protected by UK copyright (or by UK unregistered design right). There are certain qualifying requirements which must be met by the author (or at least one co-author) in order for such protection to exist. In general terms, a UK national or resident is a 'qualifying person', although the criteria also extend to a person from another country, such as one of the EU countries.

The author of a work is the person who creates it, and they are also the 'first owner' of the copyright in the work. This copyright can subsequently be transferred to another person (or company) by assignment. However, generally speaking, if the author is an employee and creates the work as part of his work duties, copyright is first owned the employer, unless agreed otherwise.

For more information, please contact us by calling +44 (0) 1242 691 801 to speak with one of our attorneys.

Duration of copyright

UK copyright in an artistic work generally expires 70 years from the death of the author of the work (or the last of the authors, if two or more people co-authored the work). This is measured to the end of the relevant calendar year. For example, if the sole author of a book passed away in 1945, the UK copyright would expire at the end of 2015, rather than 70 years to the day following the passing of the author.

Sometimes copyright has a shorter term. For example, if an artistic work is exploited by industrial manufacture - when making a product with a particular design, for example - then the copyright term is limited to 25 years from the end of the calendar year in which articles including the copyright work are first marketed.

For more information, please contact us by calling +44 (0) 1242 691 801 to speak with one of our attorneys.

Copyright infringement

Copyright is infringed by a person, who without the permission of the copyright owner:

  • Copies the work
  • Issues the work to the public
  • Rents or lends the work to the public
  • Performs, shows or plays the work in public
  • Broadcasts the work or includes it in a cable programme service
  • Makes an adaption of the work
  • Or does any of the above in relation to an adaptation of the work.

Copyright is also infringed by a person who, without obtaining a licence from the copyright owner, does or authorises any of the above restricted acts.

For more information, please contact us by calling +44 (0) 1242 691 801 to speak with one of our attorneys.

Copyright Law - Legal Texts

The Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988

 

Note that we advise on copyright issues on a case-by-case basis, and you should telephone us if you require specific advice on copyright infringement or related matters. The information on this page is simplified for brevity and does not constitute legal advice.

 


 

Will both UK copyright and UK unregistered design right protect my work?

 

Possibly – UK copyright and unregistered design right have some overlap in protection. If your work is artistic, copyright protection is provided. For example, copyright and design right protection may both apply to sculptures, or other works of artistic craftmanship. The qualifying requirements must be met in order for the relevant right to subsist.

 


 

I have written a book. Will copyright protect me and if so for how long?

 

Yes – UK copyright protection will last throughout your lifetime, and until around 70 years following your passing. The same applies to any artistic works you have created. If someone copies your work without permission before this, then that could constitute copyright infringement.

 

If you would like further information, please email us directly here or call +44 (0) 1242 691 801 to speak to a qualified European Patent attorney or fill in the form below.

 

ASK AN EXPERT


reCAPTCHA
Please leave this blank
Sending
  • Patents
    • Overview
    • UK Patents
    • European / Euro-PCT Patents
    • International Patents
    • US Patents
    • Patent Infringement
    • Patent Opposition
    • Product Development
    • Costs
    • FAQs
  • Designs
    • Overview
    • UK Designs
    • European Designs
    • International Designs
    • Costs
    • FAQs
  • Trade Marks
    • Overview
    • UK Trade Marks
    • European Trade Marks
    • International Trade Marks
    • Trade Mark Infringement
    • Trade Mark Opposition
    • Costs
    • FAQs
  • Copyright
  • Brexit
  • Infringement
    • Patent Infringement
    • Trade Mark Infringement
  • Opposition
    • Patent Opposition
    • Trade Mark Opposition
  • IP Strategy
    • Obtaining Protection
    • Enforcing Your Rights
    • Defending an Infringement Action
    • Intellectual Property Insurance
    • The Patent Box
    • Your Competitors’ IP
    • IP Audits Plus

Ask an Expert

reCAPTCHA
Please leave this blank
Sending

What Our Customers Say...

Albright IP Limited
Albright IP Limited
4.9
powered by Google
David Chalk
David Chalk
21:43 02 Jun 20
Great service, attention to detail and truly actionable advice. I've no hesitation in recommending Albright IP and Adrian in particular. Many thanks.read more
George Tatham-Losh
George Tatham-Losh
13:29 05 Feb 20
Fantastic service as always, detailed, informative and all the hard work was done with minimal input from myself. I have been working with Katie and her fantastic team for years and would highly recommend.read more
Christopher James
Christopher James
16:59 20 Jan 20
Choosing Albright IP was one of the best decisions I have made. Adrian and Cloe have both helped me tremendously so far, they are very professional, friendly, prompt and always there to help and answer any questions. Katie Oliver has also been wonderful assisting with the trademark. Thank you all and looking forward to continue to work with you.read more
Richard Hearn
Richard Hearn
16:05 22 Nov 19
Excellent professional advise and extremely honest and upfront people. Many thanks Adrian and your team!
Brian Gibbs
Brian Gibbs
07:32 23 Aug 19
I have absolutely no hesitation in recommending Albright IP Ltd having received superb service and support throughout. Every query I raised was dealt with professionally and very quickly by Will who provided fully detailed and regular updates as well being approachable and friendly at all times. I have full confidence in Albright IP!read more
Warren Philbey
Warren Philbey
10:54 18 Jul 19
From the first call I had a great feeling, polite, friendly, informative and professional. From then it just got better and after a great deal of help and support in understanding our needs we contracted with Albright and they did a fantastic service, exceeding any expectations and proving themselves to be a truly wonderful company to work with. 10 stars! A big thank you to Adrian and his team.read more
Terence Hodgson
Terence Hodgson
23:06 12 Jun 19
I have not had reason to contact Albright for several years since the granting of my Patent but quite recently I did get in touch. It was as I remembered, friendly, professional, honest and informative. It appears that Adrian and the Albright team are there for me no matter the length of time. T Hodgson. UMU HSA Ltdread more
Paul Sims
Paul Sims
12:40 12 Apr 19
Adrian and The Albright Team are Professional and Helpful. It has is a real gem to found such great people to act as part of my extended legal team regards Patents. I am pleased to recommend and have them represent my Registered Patents. Thank you. www.thebluebearpartnership.comread more
Nick Ball
Nick Ball
19:16 12 Mar 19
High quality service at a reasonable price. With Albright you feel you're in very good hands. Marc was always courteous, responsive, well informed and generous with his time. I would have no hesitation recommending Albright or working with them again.read more
Andrew Stewart
Andrew Stewart
16:27 26 Feb 19
Great depth of expertise, advice and counsel. Not only expert advisors, Albright IP provide valuable, balanced and cogent advice on complex (and simple) matters of patent and trademark law. Delivered with great clarity, always available and keen to provide balanced perspectives in support of good outcomes. Great partners, highly recommend.read more
Simon Bradbeer
Simon Bradbeer
11:37 05 Feb 19
After leaving a well known London based attorney Albright IP were recommended to me by a colleague within the group. Since then Adrian and his team have consistently given me superb advice and support whatever the project. With their help the company has been granted a number of robust patents, registered designs and trademarks.read more
Scott Johnson
Scott Johnson
14:59 11 Jan 19
I have known Adrian Hocking for over 10 years. The service he and his colleagues offer is professional, transparent and friendly. If you have an idea that is either completely new or you think is a step-change from what is currently available, I recommend that you contact Albright IP.read more
Hannah Azar
Hannah Azar
11:10 24 Dec 18
Adrian is an exceptionally talented and experienced patent attorney. I was very impressed by the quality of work produced by the team at Albright. A fast, helpful and friendly service.read more
Oliver Pearce
Oliver Pearce
19:11 01 Dec 18
Fantastic one to one service. Knowledgeable. Friendly. Competent. And very rapid response to queries. Very impressed!read more
Simon Folmann
Simon Folmann
21:32 26 Nov 18
Adrian Hocking and Albright IP have offered us excellent service, and expertise over the last 12 months. They explain in detail the processes, implications, and opportunities with obtaining and securing Intellectual Property and for a Product Development company such as ours, it is crucial that the terminology and quality of work be above industry standard. I can with high confidence say, that the delivered work so far from Albright IP and their team, is unparalleled to prior partners we have had in IP; and I am sure it will continue to do so in our future endeavours together.read more
Martin Boyd
Martin Boyd
15:17 03 Nov 18
Excellent technical and legal knowledge. Amazing friendly customer service catered to individual customer needs. Highly recommended.read more
Mike N
Mike N
16:14 08 Oct 18
Albright-IP - We can highly recommend Albright-IP, after contacting several patent companies prior to application - we were after a patent company to offer realistic and practical advice, be able to process our claim from start to finish, After speaking with Mr Doherty on the telephone we decided Albright -IP would be able to offer the skills and knowledge required for our application and asked them to represent us. Albright-IP were on hand to explain the complexities of the process and how our claim may or may not be defended in the real world, Mr Will Doherty is our patent attorney, he was professional and attentive, his knowledge and customer service is very good. We are confident our patent application is in good hands and we are pleased to have Alrbight IP there to assist us with our application, without their input we may well have been wasting our time due to our lack of knowledge in this complex matter.read more
Jeffrey Chua
Jeffrey Chua
08:47 14 Sep 18
We worked with Albright IP Limited on patent applications in EU and UK, specifically through Cloe Loo. Cloe and her team have done a fantastic job. We were glad to have assistance from Albright on our patent application journey. I am impressed by the team's professionalism and we will be engaging Albright to be our long-term legal adviser in patent applications.read more
Graham Kelly
Graham Kelly
17:49 07 Sep 18
I have a granted patent! thanks to Will and the team at Albright. ? Friendly and helpful service, it's great how they can very quickly grasp the required understanding of your idea and put pen to paper and draft a patent. Will was great at pointing out what are valid aspects of my idea and taking me through the process of what that means in patent language! A few more steps to go to hopefully gain the overseas coverage. ?read more
Geraint Morgan
Geraint Morgan
09:44 21 Aug 18
Albright IP provided an excellent, efficient, affordable high quality service that made the whole patent filing experience an enjoyable one - contrary to previous experiences. We are certainly more likely to consider patenting our innovations in the future based on our recent experience and would highly recommend Albright IP to others.......read more
Don Spence
Don Spence
12:07 09 Aug 18
Filing patents can be a steep learning curve but Adrian does an excellent job explaining the process. Adrian and his associates are easy to contact and they will always answer your questions. Money and cost are important and the Albright team do their best to make sure your $$ is spent in a wise fashion. After working with Albright for 6 years, I am happy with their work and I have no reason to change companies. My many thanks for professional service.read more
Graeme Allison
Graeme Allison
22:54 31 Jul 18
Adrian and his team provided and excellent service, their technical understanding is fantastic and patent advice has been impeccable, I’d highly recommend Albright IP should you be looking for patent expertise.read more
Mark Hendriksen
Mark Hendriksen
16:12 17 Jul 18
Exceptional. Guided me through the process in clear understandable steps. Hoping we have a long and successful future ahead with the patents they've so expertly managed for me so far.read more
jing cheng
jing cheng
13:12 19 Jun 18
I contacted Adrain for advise in a short time frame. He is very professional and clear about price policy. He has very good understanding of online business and IP law. He is very quick responding and speakes the language I understand. Highly recommended.read more
Lorenzo Rimoldi
Lorenzo Rimoldi
12:44 07 Jun 18
Adrian was very helpful, upfront and clear on processes, costs and timeline. He's very professional and proactive in his involvement and support. I would definitely recommend Albright IP.read more
Mohammed Deria
Mohammed Deria
04:06 01 Jun 18
Adrian is a true professional at the top of his field! Due to his background in engineering, Adrian effortlessly understand the needs of his client even when it is highly technical in nature. An attentive ear and huge generosity with his time, Adrian's support to us as a client has been extremely valuable. I would highly recommend Adrian and the team at Albright IP for protecting your IP.read more
Guy Procter
Guy Procter
17:36 21 May 18
What can I say, excellent help so far! Very clear and helpful service, explained in terms you can understand covered everything I thought I needed and then some more to give me all the options available. More than willing to recommend Albright IP.read more
Kirishan Siva
Kirishan Siva
09:14 17 Dec 17
The Albright team were extremely helpful and knowledgeable in the whole patent process for our product and went through each process in registering patent to help us understand this fully. Highly recommend Adrian and team for their knowledge, efficiency and professional service!read more
Jade Baron
Jade Baron
16:05 25 Nov 17
Adrian Hocking at Albright handled my recent patent application. I've been very happy with his service. He was very responsive to my questions and explained everything thoroughly. He was very supportive of my idea and consistently positive, which was also helpful. Albright has relationships with various other businesses that help inventors, so it's kind of a like a one-stop-shop. Highly recommend.read more
Meopham Fencing
Meopham Fencing
15:27 08 Nov 17
Great advice and customer service at a reasonable price. They have enabled us to finalise our case satisfactorily. Would happily recommend them and use them again.read more
James Garritt
James Garritt
09:17 17 Oct 17
Adrian and his team have been fantastic in all works asked to do. They have ensured my idea has been protected in every way. They have helped with the design process also and I could not wish for a better team. You may be paying a little more than you feel is expected....but you get what you pay for and you probably save money in the long run. Highly recommended.... use without worry.read more
Tony Laycock
Tony Laycock
16:06 02 Oct 17
I have found that the company has given me excellent service in getting my patent through the process. Every time I have had a phone conversation I have felt I was given plenty of time to discuss what was happening. Along with sound advice I have been able to make great progress. In my opinion it is one of the best companies I have ever dealt with and would be happy to recommend them.read more
Next Reviews

Need a Product Designer?

Duku

Helpful Tips

Unlike most countries, America provides a 12 months grace period from first disclosure in which a patent application can still be filed. Therefore, even if publicly disclosed, you may still be entitled to valid patent protection for your invention in at least the USA.

Quicklinks & Glossary

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
  • F
  • G
  • H
  • I
  • J
  • K
  • L
  • M
  • N
  • O
  • P
  • Q
  • R
  • S
  • T
  • U
  • V
  • W
  • X
  • Y
  • Z

Cheltenham Head Office

Albright IP
County House
Bayshill Road
Cheltenham
Gloucestershire
GL50 3BA
United Kingdom

 

(use for all correspondence)

Cornwall Office

Pool Innovation Centre
Redruth
Cornwall TR15 3PL

 

London Meeting Room

5 Merchant Square
London, W2 1AY

 

See the Contact Us page for details

Contact Us

Cheltenham: +44 (0)1242 691801
Cornwall: +44 (0)1209 316161
London: +44 (0)20 3813 2885

Email: info@albright-ip.co.uk

Vat No: 891 4780 86


  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • Twitter
  • Vimeo

Newsletter

reCAPTCHA
Please leave this blank
Sending

Copyright © 2021 · Dynamik-Gen on Genesis Framework