In the U.S., the Plant Variety Protection Act (PVPA) provides patent-like protection for sexually reproduced and tuber-propagated plant varieties. Unlike utility patents and plant patents which are granted by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the PVPA is administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Plant Variety Protection Act was enacted to allow a “breeder of any sexually reproduced or tuber propagated plant variety who has so reproduced the variety” to receive protection for the variety if the variety is new, distinct, uniform and stable.

It is important to remember that plant protection laws vary from country to country. Our firm has extensive experience with plant protection in the U.S. and countries all around the world. Our firm has earned its reputation based on the extensive training and experience, both scientific and legal, of its professional staff.

We strive to obtain for our clients the best protection available through a thorough and creative approach in preparing and prosecuting patent applications, negotiating and drafting license agreements, collaborative research, development and marketing agreements, materials transfer agreements and other types of agreements relating to biotechnology.

What distinguishes us from other law firms is our depth of knowledge in plant science, genetics, and plant research, and our commitment to your business goals.

Useful links:

• U.S. Plant Variety Protection Office (PVPO)