Intellectual Property Law

Turkish Legal Consultancy

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We provide comprehensive legal services in intellectual property (IP) law, supporting clients in the protection, enforcement, and commercialization of their rights in Turkey and internationally.

Our team advises on trademarks, patents, industrial designs, and copyrights, combining registration, litigation, and strategic consultancy to safeguard our clients’ innovations and market position.

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Litigation & Enforcement

We represent clients in all types of IP disputes, including:

• Preliminary injunctions and evidence preservation (determination of evidence)

• Unfair competition actions and enforcement proceedings

• Nullity (invalidation) actions against trademarks, patents, and designs

• Compensation claims (pecuniary and non-pecuniary damages) arising from IP infringement

• Appeals and disputes related to trademark and patent registration decisions

• Revocation and cancellation proceedings for trademarks and patents

• Copyright infringement actions and compensation claims

• Injunctions for prevention of infringement (quia timet actions)

• Administrative and judicial challenges against decisions of the Re-examination and Evaluation Board (YİDK) before the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office

Our litigation strategy is fast, evidence-driven, and commercially focused, aiming to secure effective protection and enforcement of rights.

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Advisory & Prosecution Services

We provide end-to-end consultancy covering the full lifecycle of intellectual property rights:

• Trademark and patent registration at national and international levels

• Industrial design applications and portfolio management

• Legal due diligence and IP protection in mergers and acquisitions (M&A)

• Drafting and review of license agreements, assignment agreements, and IP-related contracts

• Structuring and supervision of confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements (NDAs)

• Monitoring and enforcement of trademark, patent, and copyright portfolios

• International trademark searches, filings, and transfer procedures

• Protection and strategic management of trade secrets and know-how

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We ensure that intellectual property assets are not only protected, but also effectively leveraged as commercial value drivers.

Why Intellectual Property Protection Matters

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In today’s competitive environment, intellectual property is a core business asset.

Failure to properly register and enforce IP rights may result in:

• Loss of exclusivity

• Market dilution and reputational damage

• Financial losses due to infringement

We support our clients in building robust, enforceable, and commercially aligned IP strategies.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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How long does trademark registration take in Turkey?

Trademark registration typically takes 6–8 months, provided that no opposition is filed during the process.

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Can I register my trademark internationally?

Yes. International protection can be obtained through systems such as the Madrid Protocol, allowing registration in multiple jurisdictions based on a single application.

What is the difference between a patent and a trademark?

• Patents protect technical inventions

• Trademarks protect brand names, logos, and distinctive signs

Each serves a different legal and commercial function.

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What should I do if my IP rights are infringed?

Immediate legal action is critical. Options include:

• Injunctions to stop infringement

• Evidence detection procedures

• Compensation claims

Early intervention significantly increases enforcement success.

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Can I take action before infringement actually occurs?

Yes. Quia timet (preventive) actions allow rights holders to act when there is a serious risk of infringement, even before actual damage occurs.

 

What are YİDK decisions and can they be challenged?

YİDK is the Re-examination and Evaluation Board of the Turkish Patent and Trademark Office. Its decisions can be challenged before the competent courts through nullity actions.

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Are trade secrets legally protected in Turkey?

Yes. Trade secrets are protected under unfair competition and confidentiality regulations.

Proper contractual and internal safeguards are essential.

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Why is IP due diligence important in M&A transactions?

IP assets often represent a significant portion of a company’s value.

Legal due diligence ensures:

• Valid ownership

• Absence of disputes

• Transferability of rights

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Do I need ongoing IP legal consultancy?

Yes. Continuous monitoring, renewal, and enforcement are essential to maintain the validity and commercial value of IP rights.