Intellectual property - Introduction
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Summary
Intellectual property rights are designed for the protection of certain valuable
intangibles such as the name or the shape of goods, inventions, designs,
artistic efforts and other works of authorship. Intellectual property rights are
subject to federal legislation but also to a vast number of treaties. In Swiss
law, intellectual property is the collective term for patents, trademarks,
designs and copyrights. The Swiss
Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (the "Institute") is the
responsible office for patents, trademarks, designs and copyrights and an
important hub for intellectual property matters at the international level.
Unfair competition and cartel law are areas of law closely related to the
intellectual property laws: Cases of false advertising, disparagement and other
exploitative practices may constitute violations of intellectual property rights
but also of unfair competition. Furthermore, monopolies created by intellectual
property rights are exempt from the application of the cartel law.
Applicable law
Detailed information
Patents
Trademarks
Copyrights
Design
Unfair Competition
Computer Programs
Frequently asked questions
Useful links
This site has been prepared by
Dr. Stephan Netzle, LL.M.
Dr. Peter Mosimann
WENGER PLATTNER
Seestrasse 39
8700 Kuesnacht-Zurich
Switzerland
Tel: +41 43 222 38 00
Fax: +41 43 222 38 01
E-Mail:
stephan.netzle@wenger-plattner.ch or
peter.mosimann@wenger-plattner.ch
www.wenger-plattner.ch
May 2006
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