Practice Areas

Utility Models

In Argentina, utility models are regulated by Law No. 24.481 on Patents and Utility Models. This legal figure protects any arrangement or form introduced to tools, instruments, utensils, devices, or known objects that enables improved functioning or better adaptation to a practical task.

To be eligible for protection, a utility model must meet two essential requirements: novelty and industrial applicability. Unlike patents, inventive step is not required, and prior disclosure or use abroad does not constitute an impediment to registration.

The utility model certificate is granted for a non-renewable term of 10 years, counted from the filing date of the application. This legal tool allows for the protection of concrete technical improvements through a faster registration process, making it an effective solution for practical developments with commercial impact.

Services

Technical and legal advisory on the viability of protection through utility models
Prior art searches and analysis of absolute novelty
Drafting and filing of applications before the Argentine Patent and Trademark Office (INPI)
Comprehensive monitoring of the administrative procedure until the certificate is granted
Responses to office actions, official observations, and administrative requirements
Management of assignments, licenses, and changes in ownership
Technical assistance in nullity actions, oppositions, and enforcement of rights
Preparation of translations and technical drawings
Coordination with international associates for protection in other countries
Strategic evaluation to determine whether utility model or patent protection is more appropriate