Fiducia TogetherPatent
A monopoly on an invention for up to twenty years, in exchange for publishing it.
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.
What it means
A patent protects a new invention that involves an inventive step and is capable of industrial application. It is registered, territorial, and lasts up to twenty years with renewal fees.
Why it matters
It is the strongest IP protection and the most expensive to obtain and enforce. It is also public — the application publishes the invention.
What it looks like in practice
Novelty is absolute and prior disclosure destroys it, including your own. Do not show, sell or describe the invention publicly before filing.\n\nA UK application can be extended internationally within twelve months via the priority system.
What to watch out for
Cost. Drafting, prosecution and renewals across several countries run into tens of thousands, and enforcement is a separate and larger cost. A patent you cannot afford to enforce has limited value.
Where to get proper advice
A patent attorney, not a general solicitor. The IPO offers a free initial IP audit for some businesses.
Where to read more
Last reviewed 2026-08-28 by Fiducia Together · Next review due 2027-08-28
Please note: This page explains what a term means. It is general information, not legal, financial, tax or investment advice, and it does not know anything about your business. Before you sign, file or commit to anything, check it with an accountant, a solicitor, or the official guidance we link to.