Understanding Patent Attorney Costs in South Africa
When it comes to protecting your intellectual property (IP), hiring a patent attorney is one of the best investments you can make. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, inventor, or business owner, securing a patent ensures that your innovative idea remains legally protected from unauthorized use. However, many people wonder, how much does a patent attorney cost?
At Burger Huyser Attorneys, we specialise in intellectual property law, helping individuals and businesses navigate the complexities of patent registration, enforcement, and disputes.
What Does a Patent Attorney Do?
A patent attorney is a legal professional who specializes in patent law and intellectual property rights. Their role includes:
✔ Conducting patent searches to determine if an invention is new and patentable.
✔ Drafting and filing patent applications with the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission (CIPC).
✔ Advising inventors on patent strategies to maximize protection.
✔ Handling patent disputes and litigation in cases of infringement.
✔ Managing IP portfolios for businesses and individuals.
Since patent law is highly specialised, hiring a qualified patent attorney ensures that your patent application meets all legal requirements, reducing the risk of rejection or legal disputes.
How Much Does a Patent Attorney Cost in South Africa?
The cost of hiring a patent attorney in South Africa varies based on several factors, including the complexity of the invention, the type of patent application, and the legal services required. At Burger Huyser Attorneys, our patent attorney rates start at R3,000 per hour.
Here’s a breakdown of the potential costs involved in securing a patent
| Service | Estimated Cost |
| Consultation | R3,000 – R6,000 (1–2 hours) |
| Drafting a Provisional Patent Application | R20,000 – R40,000 |
| Filing a Provisional Patent with CIPC | R5,000 – R15,000 |
| Drafting a Complete Patent Application | R30,000 – R80,000 |
| Filing a Complete Patent with CIPC | R10,000 – R25,000 |
| Patent Renewals (Annual Fees) | R1,500 – R5,000 per year |
| Legal Representation for Patent Disputes | R3,000+ per hour |
Since every patent case is unique, it’s best to consult with a patent attorney to get a customised cost estimate based on your specific needs.
What Factors Affect Patent Attorney Fees?
Several factors can influence the overall cost of hiring a patent attorney, including:
- Complexity of the Invention
If your invention involves advanced technology, software, or pharmaceutical formulations, the patent drafting process may take longer, increasing costs.
- Type of Patent Application
✔ Provisional Patent Applications (simpler and more affordable)
✔ Complete Patent Applications (more detailed and expensive)
✔ International Patents (higher costs due to multiple jurisdictions)
- Patent Search Requirements
A comprehensive patent search ensures your invention is truly unique, but this process can take several hours or even days, increasing costs.
- Legal Complexity & Potential Disputes
If another company challenges your patent or if you need to enforce your rights against an infringer, legal representation costs will be higher.
Why Hiring a Patent Attorney is a Valuable Investment
Some inventors try to file a patent without legal assistance to save money, but this often leads to costly mistakes, including:
Rejected applications due to improper filing.
Insufficient protection, leaving your invention vulnerable to theft.
Legal disputes, resulting in high litigation costs.
Hiring a patent attorney ensures that your patent is properly drafted, filed, and protected, saving you money in the long run. Investing in a qualified patent attorney ensures that your intellectual property is legally protected, giving you peace of mind and a competitive advantage.
Contact Burger Huyser Attorneys today for expert advice on patent registration, enforcement, and legal protection. Our team is here to help you safeguard your innovative ideas and secure your future success.
Contact Burger Huyser Attorneys, and book a consultation.
To speak to one of our experienced attorneys in South Africa for immediate assistance, contact us on the numbers below:
Randburg call 061 516 6878; Roodepoort call 061 516 0091; Sandton call 064 555 3358; Pretoria call 064 548 4838;
Centurion call 061 516 7117; Alberton call 061 515 4699; Bedfordview call 061 536 3223
DISCLAIMER: Information provided in this article does not, and is not intended to constitute legal advice. READ MORE
