The use and misuse of Spanish utility models
This is an Insight article, written by a selected partner as part of IAM's co-published content. Read more on Insight
In Spain, utility models can be used to protect inventions. As in other jurisdictions, they have a shorter term than patents and less stringent patentability requirements apply. Utility models have been and still are regarded by many as a consolation prize for inventions that are not good enough to deserve patent protection. However, the peculiarities of the patent’s little brother can make the utility model an effective weapon to fight off competitors – in some cases even more effectively than a traditional patent.
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