Lebanon - Operational difficulties at IPO

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Written By Richard Stilwell

The Lebanese Intellectual Property Office (IPO) is currently facing significant operational difficulties due to the ongoing economic and political instability in the country. The challenging environment has led to staff shortages, as many employees are unable to attend work. In addition, technical issues with the online portal have further complicated the IPO’s ability to process applications efficiently.

As a result of these circumstances, the IPO has announced that all deadlines originally set to expire from 23 September 2024, will be extended until further notice. Although no formal written notice has been shared with the public, this extension has been verbally confirmed by the head of the IPO, highlighting the office's commitment to maintaining operations despite the challenges.

Despite these disruptions, the IPO is still accepting new applications and processing them whenever possible. This ensures that applicants can continue to pursue their intellectual property rights during this uncertain time. We encourage our clients to continue instructing us as usual, and we will ensure that all applications are submitted and handled efficiently when the situation stabilises.

 
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Author: Richard Stilwell

Richard is a Chartered Trade Mark Attorney and manager in the Patents and Design department. He is responsible for overseeing and managing the day-to-day operations of the department, as well as being part of operational working groups to develop and enhance internal policies and procedures.

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Richard Stilwell

Richard is a Chartered Trade Mark Attorney and manager in the Patents and Design department.  He is responsible for overseeing and managing the day-to-day operations of the department, as well as being part of operational working groups to develop and enhance internal policies and procedures.

Richard graduated from the University of Leeds in 2012 with a Master’s degree (with Distinction) in Medicinal Chemistry, which included a placement year with a major U.K. pharmaceutical company. He joined Lysaght in 2015 and has worked in the IP industry for over ten years.

In 2016 Richard was awarded the Postgraduate Certificate in Intellectual Property (with Distinction) from Bournemouth University, and he became a Chartered Trade Mark Attorney in 2018.

He adds a considerable skill set to the company, where he is responsible for a wide-ranging portfolio, particularly for patent cases in the Caribbean and Middle East.  In his dual role, Richard also handles prosecution and contentious matters within the trade mark department in several complex jurisdictions.

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