Intellectual Property Investigations

The investigative staff of CPS Worldwide includes professionals from the disciplines of science, the law, pharmaceuticals and information technology. Together we work anywhere in the world to ensure that your trademark or patent is protected. If infringements are confirmed, we will gather evidence that can be used in litigation.

We investigate the use of trademarks registered anywhere in the world, searching databases and conducting site visits and making product purchases. The evidence of whether a particular mark has been used within a relevant period is presented to our clients who may then challenge its validity. Our services are provided on a fixed-fee basis within an agreed timescale. We also conduct negotiations to purchase trademarks on behalf of our clients.

We frequently assist clients by investigating patent infringements and, when appropriate, assessing the possibility of revocation. We undertake technical research conducted by investigators who have scientific expertise. Our cases have ranged from product packaging and food manufacture to road safety devices and medical equipment.

With the growing use of the Internet as a business tool, brand owners must take steps to protect their reputation and prevent on-line infringements of their IP rights. Initially, the biggest threat came from cyber-squatters who registered domain names to prevent their use by brand owners. In those situations we have negotiated the purchase of domain names on behalf of brand owners.

More recently, infringements occur in the form of typo-squatting, metatag abuse, deep-linking, flaming and a host of other problems. We assist clients identify those responsible for such abuses.

Our investigations into counterfeiting have ranged from fashion designs to automotive products and other branded merchandise in Europe, Asia and the Americas. Counterfeiting investigations are often complex, involving purchases of items through front companies, surveillance and liaison with relevant authorities.