Intellectual Property Law
The legal environment surrounding intellectual law and its protection has changed significantly in recent years. On the substantive level, new legal precedent is continuously being rendered by courts based on the frequent revisions made to both the Patent Act and the Copyright Act as well as expansion of doctrines by courts in cases involving allegations of infringement concerning the doctrine of equivalence and validity of patents. In addition, those involved in defending against infringement claims are encountering difficulties arising from, among other things, the judicial policy aimed at rendering decisions more promptly in a shortened period of one year following the initial hearing in the matters as well as the increased amounts of damage and compensation awards.In addition, as part of an overseas patent litigation policy, many Japanese companies are increasingly using the affirmative initiation of legal action against U.S. companies as a means of avoiding being sued by U.S. companies. Finally, as is the case with the acceleration of protection of its intellectual property rights by China following its joining the WTO, it has become increasingly important for the various Asian countries to develop strategies for protection of intellectual property rights developed by businesses in the course of business operations.
In light of the drastic changes both in the nature and number of disputes in the field of intellectual property law, Oh-Ebashi has not only systematized its practice from the past to the present with respect to both domestic and international formation of intellectual property, its transfer and dispute prevention, but Oh-Ebashi also strives to train its intellectual property specialists and provide continuing training and educational opportunities.Oh-Ebashi attorneys are capable of providing strategic representation and counseling on intellectual property matters and related disputes by a team of intellectual property specialist, and as required, through cooperation with foreign intellectual property lawyers or technical experts from the relevant field.
