Back to glossary

Intellectual property

Definition : Intellectual property

Intellectual property comprises all exclusive rights granted over intellectual creations. It comprises two branches: literary and artistic property, which concerns intellectual works , is made up of copyright and neighboring rights; industrial property, concerns, on the one hand, utilitarian creations, such as the patent and the Plant Variety Certificate, and, on the other hand, distinctive signs, notably trademarks, domain names and the appellation of origin. These rights enable creators and rights holders to control the use of their creations and receive remuneration for their use. Intellectual property can be protected by national and international laws, such as free trade agreements and World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) conventions.

An intellectual property lawyer can help clients protect, enhance and defend their intellectual property assets.