IP services / German patent applications
HORAK · INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
German patent applications
Protect a technical invention in Germany before a product launch, trade fair or investor presentation. We assess the proposed filing, prepare the application and guide prosecution before the German Patent and Trade Mark Office (DPMA).
Start with the invention, not the form
A useful application explains the technical problem, the solution and the alternatives competitors might adopt. We discuss prototypes, drawings, test results and known products with the inventors. The claims define the requested protection; the description must support them from the outset. Material missing at filing cannot simply be added later while keeping the original filing date.
Choose the scope of the instruction
An initial assessment, a prior-art search, drafting, filing and responding to examination reports are distinct stages. We agree which work is included and identify official fees, translations and later prosecution costs separately. A narrow first filing can be a false economy if it omits commercially important alternatives.
From filing to enforceable protection
Filing establishes an application date subject to the statutory requirements. Grant follows examination; it is not guaranteed by filing or paying a package price. A granted patent may remain in force for up to 20 years from filing if the legal requirements and renewal obligations are met. Protection is territorial, and owning a patent does not itself give freedom to use the invention.
Three practical examples
Illustrative situations; outcomes depend on the facts and the applicable law.
01
A machine manufacturer plans to demonstrate a new gripper at a trade fair: we prioritise a sufficient filing before the demonstration.
02
A research team has improved a sensor but has not selected the final housing: we assess which alternatives should already be described.
03
A supplier owns a patent for a component but wants to launch an assembled system: a separate freedom-to-operate review considers third-party rights.
What to prepare
Technical description, drawings, inventor and applicant details, known prior art, disclosure history and planned launch dates.
How we approach your matter
01 · Assess
We identify the objective, the relevant rights and the next deadline. Existing documents and the technical or commercial background determine the scope of the review.
02 · Agree
We explain the available routes, material risks and expected stages. The instruction distinguishes professional fees from official charges, translations and external costs.
03 · Act
We carry out the agreed work, report material developments and identify the next decision. Filing, registration or a particular dispute outcome cannot be guaranteed.
Further information
Official guidance relevant to this topic. Individual advice requires a review of the particular documents, facts and deadlines.
International filing strategy · Portfolio review · IP disputes
Discuss the next step
Tell us what you want to protect, the markets involved and any filing, launch or response deadline. We will clarify the scope of the instruction, the documents needed and the basis of the fees before starting the agreed work. Please identify the parties first so that we can check for conflicts and arrange a suitable channel for sensitive technical information.
Hannover headquarters · Advice for German and international businesses · Our offices
Enquire about german patent application
Describe the technical development you would like to protect and any planned disclosure or launch. Use this form to request drafting and filing support for a German patent application; detailed confidential documents can follow through an agreed channel. All fields are optional.