The Intellectual Property Attorney (CPI) is a regulated profession in France, primarily codified in the Intellectual Property Code. An IP attorney (CPI) is a qualified expert who advises, assists and represents individuals or companies in matters of intellectual property including patents, trademarks, designs and copyrights. The IP attorney (CPI)’s duties are varied and include representing applicants before intellectual property offices, filing intellectual property rights and monitoring procedures, drafting contracts, negotiating licenses, defending intellectual property rights in court and mediating in case of disputes, among other tasks.
To become an IP attorney (CPI), a scientific education (typically an engineering school for patent attorneys) and legal training with a specialization in intellectual property are needed. A specific diploma awarded by the French Patent and Trademark Office (INPI) after passing a qualifying examination is also required. Additionally, IP attorneys (CPI) must have three years of professional experience in a firm specializing in intellectual property law. The IP attorney (CPI) title can also be obtained through the validation of prior experience.
This profession can be practiced individually or in a firm, and IP attorneys (CPI) must comply with a strict code of ethics, including professional secrecy and the prohibition of conflicts of interest. They must also be registered on an official list managed by the French Patent and Trademark Office (INPI). Specific conditions for practicing this profession, including registration and corporate operation requirements are detailed in articles L.422-1 to L.422-13 of the French Intellectual Property Code.
IP attorneys (CPI) are key players in the management, protection and exploitation of intellectual property rights and actively contribute to business strategy and innovation as well as the protection of creations.