By now, everyone has likely heard about the United Kingdom’s vote last week to leave the European Union. Few things are certain at this time, as governments around the world are still making plans to deal with Brexit. Further, discussion concerning a potential second referendum on the UK’s participation in the EU, while unlikely to change the vote, has achieved enough momentum to require Parliamentary debate.

Once the UK formally requests withdrawal (which may still be months away), its transition out of the EU will be a lengthy process. As of now, no laws have changed as a result of the UK vote last week. We therefore do not recommend taking any drastic action at this time. We do, however, recommend that any businesses with a presence in the EU begin planning for the changes that will ultimately affect trademark and design rights in Europe.