Glossary

Patent agent network

A patent agent network is a global group of qualified, independent patent agents and attorneys who represent applicants before national or regional patent offices. The network enables coordinated, efficient and compliant patent filing across multiple jurisdictions.

Description

Patent agent networks are essential for organizations seeking international protection of their inventions. Because patents are territorial rights, applications must be filed separately in each target market. Local patent agents – registered professionals with in-depth knowledge of national law – prepare, translate and prosecute applications on behalf of inventors or corporate applicants.

RWS maintains one of the world’s largest and most trusted patent agent networks. This global community of specialists provides end-to-end support, from translation and filing to prosecution and renewal, ensuring each submission meets local procedural and linguistic requirements.

Example use cases

  • Filing: Coordinate simultaneous filings across multiple patent offices.
  • Compliance: Ensure applications meet local formalities and deadlines.
  • Translation: Provide accurate, subject-specific translation of claims and specifications.
  • Prosecution: Manage office actions, amendments and legal correspondence.
  • Management: Maintain renewals and updates through a single trusted network.

Key benefits

Reach
Access experienced agents in more than 100 jurisdictions.
Consistency
Apply unified quality standards and centralized project management.
Efficiency
Streamline multi-country filing through one coordinated partner.
Compliance
Ensure adherence to local laws, timelines and procedural nuances.
Compliance
Gain visibility and control across all stages of the patent lifecycle.

RWS perspective

At RWS, our Patent Agent Network combines global scale with local expertise. Working alongside our in-house IP specialists, these agents deliver consistent, high-quality service across every region.

Through this network, clients can file, translate and prosecute patents seamlessly, supported by our secure digital platforms and centralized account management. Each partner is carefully selected, evaluated and monitored to maintain RWS’s high standards of accuracy, confidentiality and professionalism. Together, we provide a single, integrated route to global patent protection – reducing administrative effort and ensuring compliance in every jurisdiction.