Book Review: EU Intellectual Property Law and Policy

The second edition of Catherine Seville's EU Intellectual Property Law and Policy promises an updated account of key topics and considerations of the EU's law and policy in the digital realm. Part of the Elgar European Law series, the book covers EU IP law and policy in a "compact and accessible" manner.

The book devotes separate sections to the main areas of EU IP law: copyright, patents, designs and trade marks (in addition to their related rights). Two further sections address IP, free movement & competition, and the enforcement of IP. The text is full of relevant European-level cases, and considers some national cases, in addition to including the texts of key legislations. The only area that does not appear to be addressed in depth is that of trade secrets, which is not surprising given how the topic is relatively new.  Brexit is beautifully beyond the book.

Seville's approach is methodical and accessible. For complete novices, chapters include short sections such as "What is a patent? A brief outline." A bit further on, and the more advanced reader will gain from Seville's insights into the Doha declaration negotiations. Cases are liberally cited. For example, Seville describes how the 2013 Georgetown University v. Octrooicentrum Nederlam (ECLI:EU:2013:828) case confirmed that several SPCs are not precluded in the case where a basic patent protects more than one product (go Hoyas!).

EU IP Law and Policy is a comprehensive book which can be read as a whole, in parts, or used as a reference. It will be particularly useful for students and legal practitioners seeking a concise analysis of key parts of EU law.  On a sad note, this volume was published posthumously. You can read more about the work and IP life of Dr. Seville here.

EU Intellectual Property Law and Policy: Second Edition (2016) is published by Edward Elgar. IBSN: 9781781003459. The book can be purchased in hardback for £108. Rupture factor: Medium-high, a respectable 592 pages.