Innovation meets Information.

Our intellectual property blog.

Theo Schubert

From Community Design to EU Design: What Changed on July 01, 2026

When developing new products, priority is usually given to functionality, the target market and appearance. The legal protection of the design itself often tends to be overlooked. Nevertheless, design law is an effective and pragmatic means of safeguarding your creative work and preventing imitation. Following the reform of European design regulations in 2025, not only has the terminology changed, but also the procedures, the scope of protection and the fees. The second and decisive phase entered into force on 1 July 2026.

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SEEMANN & PARTNER

We’ve Moved!

As of 3 July, you will find us at Alstertwiete 3 in Hamburg.

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Theo Schubert

Patent costs in 2026: How founders, start-ups, and SMEs can plan their intellectual property strategy

Why intellectual property rights are more than just paperwork - When coming up with an innovation, people tend to think first and foremost about development, the market and financing. Intellectual property rights are rarely a priority. However, patents, utility models, trade marks and designs are crucial tools for building negotiating power, convincing investors and measurably increasing a company’s value. For entrepreneurs, start-ups and SMEs, the main question is whether the investment in intellectual property rights is worthwhile and what costs are involved.

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Jochen Volmer

Implementation of EU sanctions against Russia in IP

DPMA and EPO implement EU sanctions against Russia

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Christian Grebner

Increase of EPO official fees on April 01, 2023

On April 01, 2023, the European Patent Office (EPO) increases all official fees by about 4.5-5.5 %. It doesn't have to be more expensive for you, though.

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Jochen Volmer

Unified patent system about to be launched

The Federal Republic of Germany deposited the instrument of ratification of the Agreement on a Unified Patent Court (UPC) with the European Council on February 17, 2023. With this, the UPC will now definitely enter into force on June 1, 2023.

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SEEMANN & PARTNER

IP with clear ID. New brand and online presence of S&P.

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You are on the best way to perfectly protect your ideas!

SEEMANN & PARTNER
Patentanwälte mbB
Alstertwiete 3 • D-20099 Hamburg
Tel. +49 40-300 850 0
Fax +49 40-300 850 10

You are looking for excellent patent attorneys who will advise you with great sensitivity, skills and vision – and who will protect your intellectual property at the highest success rate? Then we are happy to welcome you in person at our intellectual property law firm in the heart of Hamburg. Welcome at SEEMANN & PARTNER!