Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), such as ChatGPT, is changing the way legal professionals perform their daily tasks, from drafting documents to conducting legal research. However, this technological advancement carries significant risks that lawyers and other legal professionals must take into account when using these tools. In this article, we explore the dangers of blindly relying on generative AI, illustrated by a court case in Spain, and offer recommendations for its safe use in the legal field.

Key Risks of Using Generative AI in the Legal Sector

1. False or Erroneous Court Summonses

One of the most obvious risks of using generative AI in the legal field is the possibility of obtaining false or incorrect legal citations. AI, even when advanced, can generate erroneous information that appears authentic at first glance—a phenomenon known as “AIhallucinations.”It is essential that lawyers verify all sources and citations generated by AI before incorporating them into legal documents.

2. Inappropriate foreign case law

Generative AI tools may provide references to foreign regulations that are not applicable under national law. This can result in the inclusion of irrelevant legal citations in local proceedings, which could compromise the validity of the documents and affect the outcome of the case. It is crucial that legal professionals use AI with caution and adapt the results to local regulations and case law.

3. Leakage of Confidential Data

The use of generative AI on open platforms poses significant risks to privacy and the confidentiality of information. By providing sensitive data to these platforms, there is a risk that it could be used to train future AI models, which could lead to the leakage of confidential information. Legal professionals must exercise extreme caution when entering sensitive data into these tools and consider the privacy implications.

4. Overreliance on AI

Although generative AI can automate legal tasks, such as drafting documents or searching for case law, it should not replace professional oversight. While 44% of legal tasks can be automated using AI, not all of them are suitable for being completely delegated to automated systems. Critical decisions must remain the responsibility of lawyers, who must apply their knowledge and professional judgment to ensure the quality and accuracy of legal work.

An Example of the Dangers of Generative AI in the Legal Profession

Recently, a Spanish lawyer filed a complaint that included a legal citation from the Colombian Penal Code. As he himself acknowledged in a subsequent letter, the reference was provided by ChatGPT3, and he committed this “gross and unintentional factual error” “due to his firm’s improper use of the artificial intelligence system, ”for which he apologized in writing.

The Supreme Court of Justice opened a separate proceeding to investigate whether the attorney had committed an abuse of rights or acted in bad faith during the proceedings. Despite the error, the court decided to dismiss the case without imposing financial penalties, noting the attorney’s prompt apology and the novelty of the issue.

The Supreme Court of Justice opened a separate proceeding to investigate whether the attorney had committed an abuse of rights or acted in bad faith during the proceedings. Despite the error, the court decided to dismiss the case without imposing financial penalties, noting the attorney’s prompt apology and the novelty of the issue.

Generative AI: A Revolution, but Not a Replacement for Legal Professionals

This ruling underscores the importance of verifying all information provided by generative AI tools and issues an ethical warning to legal professionals: “May this serve—perhaps—as a warning regarding the legal, professional, and ethical implications that the careless use of new technologies may entail.”

Generative AI is a revolution because of its processing power, but under no circumstances should it replace professionals, since the ability to filter information and adapt it to a specific legal context remains a task exclusive to lawyers.

Recommendations for the Safe Use of Generative AI in the Legal Field

1. Verification of Sources. It is essential to always confirm that the information provided by AI is accurate, relevant, and up-to-date. It is recommended to use only reliable sources and to verify that any legal citations are applicable to local law.
2. Data Protection. Confidential or sensitive information should not be included on generative AI platforms, especially those that are publicly accessible. Additionally, it is recommended to use only AI tools that guarantee high standards of privacy and security.
3. Professional Oversight. Although AI can facilitate many tasks, it should not replace professional judgment. Attorneys must review and approve all work generated by these tools before using it in their practice.
4. Continuing education. Legal professionals must stay up to date on best practices and advancements in AI, as well as the legal and ethical implications of its use in the legal field.

Generative artificial intelligence offers many opportunities to improve efficiency in the legal sector, but it also poses significant risks that should not be ignored. Cases such as the recent incident in Spain serve as a warning to all legal professionals about the dangers of blindly relying on these tools.

At ELZABURU, we are committed to the responsible use of technology in the legal sector, always under the supervision and guidance of our professionals. AI can be a great ally, but the final decision must always rest with the legal expert.

The Spanish Patent and Trademark Office (OEPM) has announced a competitive grant program for the year 2025 to promote patent and utility model applications, both nationally and internationally.

This initiative aims to promote innovation and the use of industrial property rights among Spanish companies and individuals.

In this article, we will explore what the call for proposals entails, who is eligible for these grants, what expenses are eligible for funding, what the deadlines are for submitting an application, and how to apply.

Objectives of the SPTO Grants for Patents and Utility Models

The grant program is divided into two main programs:

1. Grant Program to Promote the Filing of Patent and Utility Model Applications Abroad

This grant is intended to subsidize activities that involve the payment of fees for obtaining European or international patents, or patents from foreign national patent offices.

2. Grant Program to Promote Patent and Utility Model Applications in Spain

This grant program focuses on subsidizing patent and utility model applications in Spain. It is primarily aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and individuals who wish to protect their innovations within Spain.

Who is eligible for the Spanish Patent and Trademark Office's (OEPM) grants for patents and utility models?

Recipients of these grants must be individuals or entities with residence and tax domicile in Spain. The specific requirements for each program are as follows:

• Beneficiaries of International Applications patents and utility models:
  • Individuals
  • SMEs
  • Large private companies
  • Private nonprofit organizations
• Beneficiaries of National Applications patents and utility models:
  • Individuals
  • SMEs

What are the maximum amounts eligible for subsidies from the OEPM?

The maximum grant amounts vary depending on the type of program:

• Patent and utility model applications abroad:
  The total funding available for this program may not exceed 5,000,000 euros and will cover:
• • Up to 80% of the costs associated with applying for and protecting patents and utility models.
  • If the applicant is an SME or an individual, the grant may cover up to 90%.
• Patent and utility model applications in Spain:
  The total funding for this program is 300,000 euros. In this case, the grant will cover up to 90% of eligible expenses related to patent or utility model applications.

Application Deadline for the Call for Patent and Utility Model Grants

The application period begins on Wednesday, April 2, and ends on Friday, May 16, 2025.

Applications must be completed and submitted online through the OEPM's Electronic Portal.

Activities Eligible for Funding Under the OEPM Call for Proposals

• International Patents and Utility Models: Eligible activities are those carried out between January 1 and December 31, 2024. These include:
  • The extension of a patent or utility model application to the national offices of third countries or regional patent offices. This includes procedures such as filing, search reports, examination, or grant, EPO annual fees, or the validation of a European patent.
  • Activities carried out under the PCT international procedure: application procedures, international search, or preliminary examination.
• National Patents and Utility Models: Activities published in the Official Industrial Property Bulletin during 2022, 2023, and 2024 are eligible for funding, provided they have not received grants in previous calls for proposals. These may include activities such as:
  • An application for a Spanish utility model.
  • The Implementation of the IET for Utility Models.
  • Applying for a Spanish Patent
  • The IET's role in Spanish patent applications.
  • The Substantive Examination of Spanish Patent Applications

This grant program offers an excellent opportunity for companies and individuals who wish to protect their inventions by filing patent and utility model applications, both nationally and internationally. The grants are designed to reduce the financial burden of these processes, support innovation, and promote the competitiveness of applicants on the global stage.

If you are interested in applying for these grants to protect your industrial property assets, atElzaburuwe have ateamof experts who can advise you on preparing and filing your application, ensuring that you make the most of this opportunity.Please feel free to contact us.

Throughout history, Spain has been the birthplace of great explorers, scientists, and inventors whose contributions have been pivotal in many fields of knowledge. However, in many cases, the recognition and fame for their discoveries and advances have been attributed to others, relegating these Spanish pioneers to obscurity.

Why does this happen? Often, the success of an innovation depends not only on its ingenuity, but also on its dissemination, commercialization, and, above all, its adequate protection. Effective registration of patents, utility models, and designs is crucial to ensuring that inventors’ efforts and creativity are recognized and rewarded.

Spanish Explorers and Discoverers: Mapping the World Before Anyone Else

 One of the areas in which Spain has made fundamental contributions is geographical exploration. For centuries, Spanish navigators and scientists opened up trade routes, documented unknown territories, and undertook expeditions that expanded the boundaries of the known world.

For example, the Jesuit Pedro Páez Jaramillo discovered the sources of the Blue Nile in 1618, nearly 150 years before British explorers claimed this discovery. Similarly, Lorenzo Ferrer Maldonado was the first to describe the Bering Strait in 1588, although his name was overshadowed by the Dane Vitus Jonassen Bering more than two centuries later.

Similarly, the Jesuit José de Acosta documented the Peruvian Current in 1590, which would eventually become known as the Humboldt Current in honor of the German explorer who rediscovered it in the 19th century.

Spanish Pioneers in Technology: From the Steam Engine to the E-Book

Spain has not only been a country of explorers, but also of inventors ahead of their time. A clear example is Jerónimo de Ayanz, whom many consider the Spanish Leonardo da Vinci. Among his inventions are a diving suit, a prototype submarine, and a steam engine patented in 1606 (developed more than a century before James Watt’s famous engine).

Another example is Ramón Verea, who in 1892 designed the first calculator capable of performing the four basic arithmetic operations. However, he never sought to commercialize it, so his idea did not gain widespread popularity until the prototypes developed by the Swiss engineer Otto Steiger.

Ángela Ruiz Robles, a teacher from León who patented the " Enciclopedia Mecánica" in 1949, which is considered the first prototype of an e-book. Despite this, the American Michael Hart is commonly regarded as the inventor of the e-book.

The Unknown Inventor of Epidural Anesthesia

Military physician Fidel Pagés developed epidural anesthesia in the 1920s, and his findings were published in Spanish medical journals. However, his work went unnoticed internationally until, a decade later, the Italian Achilles Dogliotti claimed credit for the discovery. Only when evidence of Pagés’s work was presented did Dogliotti acknowledge Pagés as the true inventor of the technique.

The Value of Protecting Innovation

These are just a few examples of why it is important to ensure that inventions and discoveries are recognized and protected. Many innovative ideas have been lost throughout history not only because they were never commercialized, but also because they lacked adequate legal protection.

Today, inventors have access to key tools such as patents, utility models, and industrial designs, which allow them to assert ownership of their creations and prevent third parties from appropriating their innovations without recognition or compensation.

Commercial success may depend on many factors, but ensuring the recognition and protection of intellectual property is the first step toward enabling inventors not only to “reap the rewards” but also to enjoy the fruits of their ingenuity.

At Elzaburu, we have been advising inventors, entrepreneurs, and companies on protecting their industrial and intellectual property for over 160 years. If you have an innovative idea, don’t hesitate to contact us to ensure its recognition and commercial exploitation.

Elisa Prieto Castro, Knowledge Manager at Elzaburu

In an increasingly competitive business environment, innovation and differentiation have become key factors for growth. A recent joint study by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and the European Patent Office (EPO) confirms that companies that protect their creations through industrial property (IP) rights—such as patents, trademarks, and designs—achieve better financial results than those that do not.

The report, which analyzed the performance of more than 119,000 companies in the 27 member countries of the European Union between 2013 and 2022, sends a clear message: protecting innovation through industrial property rights leads to higher revenues and better wages for employees.

The Benefits of Registering Patents, Trademarks, and Designs: Higher Revenues and Better Wages

The study highlights the following key points:

• Companies with industrial property rights generate 41% more revenue per employee than those that do not hold any patents, trademarks, or designs.
• Employees at these companies earn salaries that are 22% higher on average.
• For small and medium-sized enterprises, the difference is even more striking: SMEs with IP rights generate 44% more revenue per employee.

The report also highlights that patent holders are the most financially successful: their revenue per employee is 28.7% higher, and the wages they pay are 43.3% higher. Trademark and design holders also show positive figures, with increases of 23.3% and 29.3% in revenue per employee, respectively.

Compiled by the author based on the EUIPO and EPO study

SMEs with industrial property rights grow faster

Less than 10% of European SMEs hold industrial property rights, while among large companies, this percentage rises to nearly 50%.

This gap presents a major opportunity for small businesses, as data shows that those that do protect their innovations are much more productive and profitable. An effective protection strategy is key to standing out, growing, and competing on equal footing with large corporations.

In addition, small and medium-sized enterprises can benefit from the new call for proposals for the SME Fund “Ideas Powered for Business” 2025, launched by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). This initiative offers financial assistance that can cover up to 50% of the associated costs (up to €1,500) for the protection of trademarks, designs, patents, and plant varieties.

Which sectors have the most industrial property registrations?

The sectors that stand out for their high level of activity in industrial property are:

• Information and Communication (14.8%)
• Manufacturing (14.2%)
• Water supply, waste management, and sanitation (12%)
• Professional, scientific, and technical activities (10.7%)

These sectors are clear examples of how innovation and the protection of intangible assets are key drivers of business growth.

Why does intellectual property help businesses grow?

Industrial property rights not only protect companies' creations, but also give them a competitive edge:

• Greater business value: IP rights are intangible assets that increase a company's value and make it easier to secure financing.
• Access to new markets: Trademarks and patents enable companies to expand with greater security and recognition.
• Increased trust: Consumers associate the protection of trademarks and designs with quality and innovation.
• Ability to collaborate: Patents and other rights foster strategic alliances and technology transfer.

Industrial Property: A Strategic Investment

The EUIPO and EPO study highlights that industrial property is a key factor in the economic success of European companies. Whether they are large companies or SMEs, investing in the protection of inventions, trademarks, and designs generates more revenue and enables companies to offer higher salaries to their employees.

At Elzaburu, we understand the value that intellectual property brings to businesses. That is why our team of experts advises companies across all sectors on the protection and management of their intangible assets, helping them maximize their returns and strengthen their market position.

The world of industrial property law is celebrating: *Actas de Derecho Industrial* is marking its 50th anniversary. Since its first issue in 1975, this prestigious journal has been a key reference in the study and evolution of trademark, patent, and competition law, bringing together some of the best scholarly articles and analyses of case law.

The Origin of the “Industrial Law Records”

If there is one date that marks the beginning of this work, it is undoubtedly February 22, 1975, the day the Institute of Industrial Law was established within the University of Santiago through the signing of an agreement. Since then, the “Proceedings” have been the Institute’s primary means of expression and an indispensable resource for scholars and professionals in the field of industrial property.

Behind this work stands another key figure: Carlos Fernández-Novoa, one of the great masters of trademark law and founder of the Institute. Alongside him, his disciples—the renowned “Santiago School, ” which included Elzaburu’s former partner, Jesús Gómez Montero—were the pillars of the annual publication of the “Actas” over the course of these five decades.

Likewise, this journal would not have been possible without the collaboration of another key figure, Alberto Bercovitz, and his school, the “Salamanca School, ” with Eduardo Galán Corona as its leading figure. This joint effort was reflected in the introductory remarks to the first volume in 1975.

A leading organization in the industry

The *Actas de Derecho Industrial* has always maintained a clear and highly useful structure, which has set it apart from other journals with sections devoted to research, analysis of court decisions, case law compilations, and book reviews—all focused on industrial property, intellectual property, and competition law.

Photograph of various issues of the “Actas de Derecho Industrial”

Anniversary of the “Industrial Property Acts”

On this 50th anniversary, it is only fitting to acknowledge the efforts of all those who have contributed to the continued publication of the *Actas de Derecho Industrial*. In particular, we would like to highlight the work of José Antonio Gómez Segade, the current chair of the Editorial Board, whose commitment has been instrumental in the preservation and evolution of this valuable legacy.

At ELZABURU, we have closely followed this development and are privileged to have the complete collection: 44 volumes that reflect half a century of fundamental legal doctrine and case law in Spanish. From the publication of the first volume in 1975 to the most recent one, received in December 2024.

We celebrate this milestone and thank the *Actas de Derecho Industrial* for its tremendous contribution to the study and development of industrial property law. Here’s to many more years of knowledge and excellence!

The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) has announced the new call for proposals for the 2025 “Ideas Powered for Business” SME Fund, a grant program aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the European Union to promote the protection of their industrial and intellectual property assets.

This initiative offers financial assistance that can be used to cover 50% of the associated costs (up to €1,500) for the protection of trademarks, designs, patents and plant varieties.

In this article, we will explore who can benefit from these grants, what expenses are eligible for funding, and what the application process entails.

Who is eligible for the EUIPO 2025 grants?

  The SME Fund 2025 is intended for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) established in the European Union that meet the criteria defined by the European Commission.

Generally speaking, a company is considered an SME if it meets these two requirements:

• It has fewer than 250 employees.
• Its annual revenue is 50 million euros or less, or its annual balance sheet total is 43 million euros or less.

At the same time, the following groups may also be eligible for this assistance:

• Self-employed individuals, provided they can verify their economic activity with an official certificate.
• Foundations in which less than 25% of the capital is held by public entities.

What expenses are eligible for reimbursement under the SME Fund 2025?

 The EUIPO program offers financial assistance to partially cover the costs associated with applying for and protecting various industrial property rights. The different eligible categories are listed below:

Prepared in-house based on the guide published by the EUIPO

1. Trademarks and Designs

• Maximum amount: up to 700 €.
• National, regional, and European coverage:
  • Fees for trademarks and designs to obtain protection for them in the EU: including application, class, examination, registration, publication, and deferral of publication fees.
  • Reimbursement percentage: 75%
• International Coverage:
  • Fees for international trademarks and industrial designs charged for applications (including basic fees, designation fees, and subsequent designation fees) under: the international trademark system (Madrid System) and the international design system (Hague System).
  • Reimbursement percentage: 50%

2. Patents

• National coverage:
  • Patent prior art search rates for national patents conducted or coordinated by the IP offices of Member States: filing, examination, grant, and publication of national patents.
  • 75% reimbursement, up to a maximum of €1,000
• European Coverage:
  • Fees for European patent protection (filing and search) charged by the EPO.
    • 75% reimbursement, up to a maximum of €1,000
  • Legal fees for the drafting and filing of patent applications by professional representatives with the European Patent Office (EPO)
    • 50% reimbursement, up to a maximum of €1,500
  • The maximum grant amount for patent protection at the European level is €2,500.

3. Plant Varieties

• Maximum amount: up to 1,500 €.
• Coverage: Fees for filing and examining applications with the Community Plant Variety Office (CPVO).
• Reimbursement percentage: 75%.

Please note that grants only cover expenses related to the registration of new IP rights; they never cover renewals. Similarly, grants are not retroactive; that is, eligible expenses must be incurred after the grant is approved. If they were incurred prior to that, they will not be reimbursable.

How do I apply for EUIPO grants?

The application process for the SME Fund “Ideas Powered for Business” is divided into several phases:

1. Submitting the Application: You may apply for different types of financial aid either simultaneously or separately.
2. EUIPO Review: The office reviews the application and issues its decision within approximately 15 business days.
3. Activation of Granted Grants: Once the grant is approved, the recipient has one month to activate it (with the possibility of a one-month extension). Activation occurs when at least one industrial property activity is carried out and the reimbursement request is submitted.
4. Use of the grant and reimbursement requests: If the recipient does not use the full amount in the first request, they have an additional six months to carry out other eligible activities and submit reimbursement requests until the balance is exhausted.

Application Deadline and Funding Allocation for the SME Fund 2025

The call for applications will remain open until December 5, 2025. However, applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, and funding is limited. The total budget for this round is 18 million euros, so it is recommended that you submit your application as soon as possible.

More information and advice

For more details on this call for proposals, the EUIPO has published a guide with guidance for applicants, which you can find on its website.

If you are interested in applying for these grants to protect your industrial property assets, at Elzaburu we have a team of experts who can advise you on preparing and processing your application, ensuring that you make the most of this opportunity. Please feel free to contact us.

In the world of intellectual property, companies that own trademarks and trade names are constantly exposed to risks and fraud. One of the most common risks is the sending of fraudulent payment requests. These practices can also be difficult to identify, as scammers imitate official communications from entities such as the Spanish Patent and Trademark Office (OEPM) or the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO).

The Two Most Common Forms of Fraud Involving Trademarks and Trade Names

 1. Fraudulent invoices

This is one of the most commonly reported scams by trademark owners.Scammers send letters containing fraudulent invoices while posing as official agencies, such as the OEPM or the EUIPO. These communications typically include:

• Counterfeit letterheads.
• Cloned official seals.
• Signatures that imitate those of the officials at these organizations.

These invoices demand payment of administrative fees for the renewal, registration, or maintenance of a trademark. Often, the payment deadlines are very short, putting pressure on the recipient.

Remember: Whenever you work with an intellectual property firm, government agencies will never send invoices directly to you. It will always be your trademark agent who requests payment of the fees.

Example of a fraudulent invoice requesting payment of trademark registration fees

2. Identity theft involving payment requests

Some scammers have developed more elaborate tactics to deceive trademark owners. One of the most common involves sending fraudulent emails while posing as official agencies such as the EUIPO or the OEPM. These emails falsely inform recipients that their registration process has been successfully completed and then request payment of fees to finalize the process.

These communications typically include:

• Details of the trademark in question that the company is in the process of registering (including the logo)
• Sender with an email address similar to that of official agencies
• Signatures that imitate those of the officials at these organizations.
• Transfer Details

Remember: Always verify the sender of emails. Whenever you work with an intellectual property firm, official agencies will never send you emails. It will always be your trademark agent who sends you the relevant communications and issues payment requests.

Example of a fraudulent email requesting payment of trademark registration fees

How can you protect yourself against these scams?

1. Be wary of unexpected communications
   If you receive a message or letter from a purported official entity requesting payment, always verify its authenticity. You can do so by contacting the relevant office directly or consulting with your trademark agent.
2. Check official sources:
   Both the OEPM and the EUIPO have sections on their websites dedicated to warning about these scams. Stay informed by visiting these resources regularly.
3. Hire an intellectual property professional at
   Working with a trademark agent provides you with an extra layer of security. Our professionals handle all the paperwork with official agencies and are trained to identify fraudulent communications.

Fraud in the field of intellectual property can be difficult to detect, but with the right tools and precautions, it is possible to protect yourself from these deceptive practices. The key is to stay informed, be wary of unexpected communications, and always seek the support of intellectual property professionals .

Spanish Constitution Day, celebrated every year on December 6, is one of the most significant dates on the democratic calendar. On this day, we commemorate the approval by popular referendum of the 1978 Spanish Constitution, which laid the foundation for the democratic system we enjoy today. But what exactly is celebrated on this day, and why is it so important?

The 1978 Referendum: A Record Turnout

December 6 marks the anniversary of the Spanish Constitution’s ratification by the citizens, a historic milestone that symbolizes the peaceful transition from dictatorship to democracy. In the 1978 referendum, 91.8% of voters endorsed the constitutional text, which was drafted through an unprecedented consensus among the political forces of the time.

The Constitution laid the foundations for a social and democratic state governed by the rule of law, establishing a system based on popular sovereignty, the separation of powers, and respect for fundamental human rights. It also structured Spain’s model of territorial organization, granting significant powers to the autonomous communities, thereby shaping the current system of autonomy.

In short, Constitution Day celebrates the consolidation of values such as freedom, equality, justice, and political pluralism, which continue to be the driving force behind social cohesion in Spain today.

Posters that reflect the debate and diversity of opinions that characterized the referendum campaign. 

The Institutionalization of Constitution Day

Five years later, in 1983, Royal Decree 2964/1983, dated November 30, established Constitution Day as a public holiday and day of commemoration. This decree sought to give the official recognition deserved to a date of such significance in Spain’s contemporary history. Since then, December 6 has been celebrated as a public holiday throughout the country, with institutional ceremonies, educational activities, and cultural events that promote understanding and reflection on the meaning of the Constitution.

Posters that reflect the debate and diversity of opinions that characterized the referendum campaign. 

Why is it important to remember December 6?

Constitution Day is not only a celebration of past achievements, but also an opportunity to reflect on the present and future of our society. The 1978 Constitution provides the framework that guarantees the rights and freedoms of all citizens and regulates social coexistence in a context of cultural and political diversity.

In a constantly changing world, this day invites us to appreciate the democratic achievements we have made and to remember that they require ongoing commitment. The Constitution is not a static document, but a reflection of society’s values and aspirations, capable of adapting to the challenges and needs of each era.

Posters that reflect the debate and diversity of opinions that characterized the referendum campaign. 

The recent cold front that affected Valencia and other municipalities has had a significant impact on businesses and individuals.

In light of this situation, the OEPM and the EUIPO have implemented specific measures to mitigate the effects and support recovery in key areas such as industrial property.

1. Fee Exemption at the Spanish Patent and Trademark Office (OEPM)

According to Article 22 of Royal Decree-Law 7/2024, individuals and legal entities domiciled in the municipalities affected by the DANA may benefit from a fee exemption for the filing of applications for trademarks, patents, utility models, and industrial designs. The requirements are as follows:

•  Reside or have a registered office in one of the 78 affected municipalities listed in the annex to the Royal Decree.
• Submit the application between November 13, 2024, and June 30, 2025

This measure will allow affected companies and entrepreneurs to register and protect their industrial property rights without incurring the usual costs. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden on those affected and promote innovation and business development in the affected areas.

2. Extension of Deadlines at the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO)

At the European Union level, the EUIPO has also implemented support measures. These measures include the extension of deadlines in all proceedings before the office. The details and requirements of these measures are as follows:

• Reside in or have its principal place of business in Valencia
• Deadlines falling between October 29, 2024, and January 13, 2025, will be automatically extended to January 14, 2025.

This extension provides much-needed breathing room for businesses and individuals who need to handle renewals, oppositions, or other procedures related to Community trademarks, designs, or patents. The measure ensures that no one loses important rights due to the effects of the DANA.

In addition, the EUIPO has indicated that it will continue to assess the need for further extensions and additional measures as the weeks go by.

If you have any questions about how Royal Decree-Law 7/2024 affects your trademarks, patents, and/or industrial designs, please contact us at elzaburu@elzaburu.es

One of the most important factors in the progress and development of civilizations is the ability of resourceful people to innovate and create tools and processes that improve the quality of life or manufacturing processes.

The last quarter of the 19th century was marked by a dramatic surge in the number of new inventions and technologies, and Spain—despite having joined the Industrial Revolution late—also experienced a boom in innovation.

Our firm, ELZABURU (then known as Vizcarrondo), was a unique witness to that era due to the shortage of intellectual property professionals in our country. We observed innovations in virtually all areas of production, but we were particularly struck by the large number of innovations in the following areas.

Minerals and Other Raw Materials

Although the Industrial Revolution in Spain was still in its very early stages, the development of manufacturing industries in countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, and France led to a growing demand for raw materials—both as sources of energy and as materials for the construction of machinery and equipment.

Spain was a region where mineral and material resources had barely been exploited, making it an attractive destination for companies involved in mining and the processing of metals and minerals.

Toward the end of the 19th century, we find a large number of patents related to mineral treatments and processes, such as methods for producing aluminum, purifying lead, producing soft iron… and many others. Likewise, it was common to discover new mining systems and machinery, such as towing devices and extractors.

Mineral Extraction Apparatus by Lorenzo Riera and Oliver (Privilege No. 4088)

Electricity and Lighting

In the final decades of the 19th century, Europe experienced a veritable race to develop a lighting system. Major advances were patented in the production and distribution of energy and its application to lighting homes and public streets. ELZABURU lists the patents of Edison and Charles Francis Bush, but also those of Spaniards such as Eusebio Molerá and Juan Cebrián, who also made significant inventions in this field.

As a fun fact, if you're wondering who patented the first light bulb, the answer isn't Edison! Despite having registered nearly 2,000 patents worldwide, it was Joseph Wilson Swan who invented the first light bulb in 1878. We'll tell you all about the history of electricity here.

Patent for an Improvement in Edison's Electric Lights (1879)

Transportation

Numerous inventions related to transportation emerged, not only in the field of railroads (or, as they are often referred to,“iron roads”) but also in thefieldsof ships, carriages, funiculars, etc.

Patent for an electric motor for railroads and streetcars by The Patton Motor Company (1892)

Telecommunications

The world of telecommunications, along with that of lighting, is one of the most fascinating and has seen some of the greatest technological advancements, particularly with the development of the telegraph and the telephone.

Numerous inventions and improvements emerged based on Graham Bell's famous telephone patent, ranging from the development of microphones, doorbells, and bells to switching systems for telephone exchanges. However , did you know that Graham Bell is not the true father of the telephone? It was actually Antonio Meucci who invented the telephone.

Such was the desire to achieve long-distance wireless communication that we have already discovered, in our archives from the early 20th century, several prototypes of cell phones, with a patent dating back to 1902.

War industry

Throughout the 19th century, Europe experienced a particularly turbulent period politically, which led to the outbreak of numerous armed conflicts. As a result, a major arms industry developed, basing its success on the development of new machinery and explosive components.

Patents relating to firearms—both small arms and artillery—are common. Of particular note here are the patents of Alfred Krupp, known as “The Cannon King” because of the significance his inventions came to have in the Prussian army’s military campaigns. 

Likewise, numerous explosive compounds were patented, most notably Alfred Nobel's invention of dynamite.

In short, the last quarter of the 19th century marked a golden age for innovation in Spain, with advances that transformed industries and changed everyday life. ELZABURU played a crucial role in protecting these inventions, helping to turn the ingenuity of the era into tangible progress.

Today, more than a century later, we remain committed to the mission of protecting and promoting the innovation that drives society's development.

All images were taken from the OEPM Historical Archive: http://historico.oepm.es/buscador.php

Elisa Prieto, Head of Knowledge Management at ELZABURU