Intellectual property (IP) refers to legal rights that protect creations of the mind—such as inventions, trademarks, literary and artistic works, and designs—from unauthorized use.
Intellectual property (IP) refers to legal rights that protect creations of the mind—such as inventions, trademarks, literary and artistic works, and designs—from unauthorized use.
A trademark protects brand identifiers like names, logos, or slogans used in business, while copyright protects original works such as books, music, films, and artwork.
Ideas alone cannot be protected. However, once an idea is expressed in a tangible form—like a written document, product design, or invention—it may be eligible for IP protection.
The time frame varies depending on the type of IP and the jurisdiction. Trademark and copyright registrations can take a few months, while patents may take a year or more.
It’s not always required, but working with an IP professional or attorney can help avoid mistakes, speed up the process, and ensure your rights are properly protected.