FAQs – Intellectual Property (IP) Services

1. What is intellectual property (IP)?

Intellectual property refers to creations of the mind such as inventions, brand names, logos, software, business methods, designs, and artistic works. IP can be legally protected to prevent unauthorized use or copying.

2. Why is protecting intellectual property important for my business?

Your IP is a valuable business asset. Protecting it helps you:

• Secure exclusive rights to use and profit from your creations
• Prevent competitors from copying or stealing your ideas
• Strengthen your brand identity and customer loyalty
• Increase the overall value of your business

3. What types of IP protections do you offer?

We assist with:

• Trademark registration for names, logos, slogans, and brand identifiers
• Copyright protection for original works (e.g., writing, music, software, designs)
• Patent filing guidance for inventions and innovations
• Trade secret protection strategies
• IP audits and enforcement advice

4. How do I register a trademark in Ghana?

We guide clients through the trademark registration process with the Registrar General's Department (RGD), including:

• Conducting a name/logo search
• Preparing and filing the application
• Monitoring the examination process
• Managing objections or oppositions (if any)
• Obtaining the final certificate

5. What is the difference between a trademark and a copyright?

• A trademark protects brand names, logos, and slogans used in commerce
• A copyright protects original creative works like books, songs, art, and computer software

Both provide different legal protections and can be registered separately.

6. How long does IP protection last?

• Trademarks in Ghana are valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely
• Copyrights generally last for the lifetime of the creator plus 70 years
• Patents are valid for 20 years from the filing date, subject to maintenance fees

7. Can I protect my ideas or business methods?

Ideas or business concepts alone are not protectable under IP laws unless expressed in a tangible form or through an innovation (e.g., patented processes or written documentation). We help you structure and safeguard such assets through trade secret policies or NDAs.

8. What happens if someone infringes on my IP?

We:

• Conduct investigations into IP misuse
• Send cease-and-desist notices
• Assist with legal enforcement through our legal partners
• Guide you through dispute resolution or court action if needed

9. Do you help with international IP protection?

Yes. We support clients in securing IP rights across multiple jurisdictions through:

• African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO)
• World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO)
• Partner legal networks in other countries

10. How do I get started with your IP services?