These form the legally binding portion of the patent, defining the exact scope of protection. Our linguists ensure every claim is translated precisely, preserving legal nuances and preventing any misinterpretation that might undermine the patent’s enforceability.

This document, published by the DPMA or EPO before a patent is granted, allows the public to review the application and offer feedback. Stepes maintains consistent terminology from this early stage through final publication to streamline the patent examination process.

Once a patent is granted, the official document is released. Stepes applies a thorough quality check to guarantee that the final text accurately reflects the granted claims, descriptions, and references required by German and European authorities.

This term refers to the invention’s newness in light of existing prior art. Our subject matter experts translate all references and claims related to novelty with precision, preventing ambiguities that might compromise the patent’s validity.

Often evaluated to confirm the invention is not obvious to a person skilled in the art. Our team ensures that technical distinctions and inventive contributions are clearly articulated in German, aligning with DPMA and EPO standards.

This section provides detailed information about the invention’s functionality, embodiments, and specific features. Stepes employs translation memory and custom glossaries to maintain consistent technical terminology and a coherent narrative throughout the patent application.

Whether you need a certified translation depends on the specific requirements of the German Patent and Trade Mark Office (DPMA) or the European Patent Office (EPO). In some cases, a standard professional translation may be sufficient, but certain legal proceedings or official filings may require a sworn or certified translator. At Stepes, we can provide certified translations if necessary, ensuring the documentation meets any legal obligations for patent submission or enforcement in Germany.

The EPO accepts patent applications in English, French, or German. However, if you intend to extend patent protection to Germany, you’ll often need a high-quality German translation of your claims or complete specification. Providing accurate, fluent German texts can be crucial for avoiding misunderstandings or compliance issues, especially during the examination and enforcement phases.

Securing patent-related information is a top priority in the translation industry. Stepes uses secure data transfer protocols, and we sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) with both our clients and linguists to safeguard sensitive intellectual property details. Our ISO-certified quality management system also incorporates strict confidentiality measures, so you can rest assured that your documents are handled with the utmost care and discretion.

Turnaround times can vary based on factors such as document length, complexity, and specific requirements (e.g., certified translations or multi-language filings). For a standard patent application of moderate length (e.g., 5,000 to 10,000 words), you can typically expect a 5–7 business day turnaround. However, expedited options are available for urgent filings, although additional fees may apply. Stepes works closely with clients to balance speed and quality, ensuring deadlines are met without compromising translation accuracy.

Stepes primarily provides specialized translation services, focusing on delivering clear and accurate German patent documents. While we don’t typically file patents directly on your behalf, we do collaborate with patent attorneys and legal professionals who can guide you through filing procedures at the DPMA or EPO. This partnership ensures both translation and filing processes align seamlessly, giving you a comprehensive solution for protecting your intellectual property.