NL Patent Office

Infringement

If a person violates the patent rights of a patent holder, this is known as infringement. For example, protected technologies may have been used or products using that technology may have been brought on the market.

If a patent holder wishes to file an accusation of infringement against someone, the 'infringer' receives a warning. A summons may then be issued. If you intend to claim for compensation for damages, this may be preceded by a notice of infringement by means of a bailiff's notification. This is not a requirement, however. A novelty search report issued by NL Patent Office is required if infringement proceedings begin. This also applies to a former six-year patent.

Bailiff's notification
The bailiff's notification is an official notice from a bailiff. This is used to inform the alleged infringer of the patent infringement.

Further information
If you have any questions, please contact the public information office by e-mailaddress This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or telephone number +31 88 602 60 00.