This handbook presents a comprehensive view of substantive patent law in a European and international context. German patent law is used as an example of a mature patent law regime. The handbook covers the following subjects: Invention and protectability Patent holders Patents as subject matter in legal transactions Granting and suspension of patents Interpretation and scope of protection Pharmaceutical, biological and chemical inventions Patent utilisation Objections Legal consequences of patent infringement Utility models The team of editors and authors is made up of experienced patent attorneys, lawyers, judges, and scientists.