* Electronic copy only (pdf)

Monopoly patent protection for 20 years available for computer programs which are based on novel and non-obvious computer-related inventions with a technical effect - need to apply for a patent before public use or disclosure of the invention.

Objectives:

• To enable computer programs which include new patentable inventions to obtain patent protection where appropriate, in addition to copyright protection.
• To guard against their being disqualified from patent protection by public use or disclosure before application for a patent is made.

*This Legal Guidance Note is only available as a pdf, which will be sent as an email attachment.