VS Legal services
Design Registration
Protect the visual character of a product — its shape, pattern, configuration, or ornamentation — without confusing appearance with technical function.
Clear guidance from first question to filing.
A decade of practical legal experience.
One-roof support with communication at every stage.
The scope of protection
Protect the look people recognise.
Design registration protects the visual appearance of an article, including its shape, pattern, configuration, or ornamentation. It does not protect the technical function or mechanism behind the product.
This can be valuable for IT hardware, pharmaceutical devices, consumer products, packaging, and other manufactured items where appearance influences recognition and choice.
The registration process
A considered record of every view.
- 01
Check eligibility and novelty
We assess whether the design is new or original, visible in use, and not excluded by the design law.
- 02
Identify the article and class
We identify the product and its applicable Locarno classification before preparing the application.
- 03
Prepare representations
We prepare clear drawings or representations showing all relevant views and the statement of novelty.
- 04
File Form 1
The application is filed with the Design Office along with the required ownership and applicant details.
- 05
Examination
The Office examines the application and we respond to any formal or substantive objection.
- 06
Registration and publication
On acceptance, the design is registered and published in the Official Journal.
Documents required
A complete file from day one.
- 01Completed Form 1 with applicant and article details.
- 02Design representations or drawings showing all required views.
- 03Statement of novelty describing the visual features claimed.
- 04Identity and address proof for the applicant.
- 05Ownership declaration or NOC, as applicable.
- 06Board resolution for companies, where required.
- 07Power of Attorney authorising the filing and representation.
Business value
A visible advantage, made enforceable.
- 01Exclusive rights over the registered visual design.
- 02A basis to seek enforcement and damages against copiers.
- 03Prima facie evidence of ownership in commercial discussions and disputes.
- 04Licensing and commercialisation value for a distinctive product appearance.
- 05A term of up to 15 years, structured as 10 years plus a 5-year renewal.
Let’s protect what you’re building.
Talk to our team about design registration and the next clear step for your business.
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