Specialist Services
Intellectual Property Law Advocates in Nairobi, Kenya
Protect, register and enforce your intellectual property rights across Kenya and beyond.
Kenya's trade mark register operates on a first-to-file basis. Every day your brand is unregistered, a competitor can file first. Register your mark today.
Do any of these situations sound familiar?
A competitor is using your brand name, product design or creative content without permission, causing real market damage and customer confusion.
You want to register a trade mark in Kenya but don't know how to navigate the KIPI process or what classes to file in.
You're licensing your intellectual property and need a robust licensing agreement to protect your rights and revenue across Kenya and the region.
You're not alone. Our advocates deal with these exact situations every week. Speak to us today →
Our Intellectual Property Law Practice
Intellectual property is one of the most valuable and underprotected assets in Kenya's fast-growing economy. WTT Lichuma Advocates LLP provides comprehensive intellectual property legal services — covering registration of patents, trademarks and copyrights, IP licensing and commercialisation, and enforcement against infringers. We remain current with emerging IP trends and the evolving legislative framework in Kenya and across the region.
Our trade mark practice covers the full process from clearance search through KIPI registration and, where necessary, opposition proceedings and court enforcement. Kenya operates on a first-to-file trade mark registration system — meaning delay in registration creates real risk that a third party files first. We advise clients on building a strategic IP portfolio aligned to their commercial activities and geographic market.
For creative industries, technology firms, publishers and innovative businesses, copyright and patent advisory is equally critical. We draft licensing agreements, protect creative works, advise on IP assignment, and represent clients in IP infringement proceedings before the courts. Our IP protection advice is practical, commercially grounded and oriented toward preserving and monetising the real value behind our clients' innovations.
How We Work With You
Initial Consultation
We listen, understand your matter, assess urgency and give you a clear view of your legal options.
Strategy & Planning
We build a defined legal strategy with milestones, timelines and a transparent cost estimate.
Expert Execution
Our senior advocates handle all filings, negotiations, documentation and court appearances.
Resolution & Follow-Up
We secure the outcome, ensure it's properly documented and follow up on implementation.
How We Can Help
Trade Mark Registration
Clearance searches, KIPI applications, examination responses and registration certificates.
Copyright Protection
Advisory on copyright ownership, licensing and enforcement of creative works in Kenya.
Patent Advisory
Patent search, KIPI application support and freedom-to-operate analysis for innovations.
IP Licensing
Drafting and negotiation of IP licensing agreements for commercial exploitation of IP rights.
Infringement Enforcement
Cease and desist letters, injunction applications and IP infringement litigation.
IP Portfolio Management
Renewal tracking, portfolio strategy and IP audit services for business IP assets.
Why Clients Choose WTT Lichuma Advocates LLP
EBS Presidential Honour — Senior Partner
Led by Mrs. Winfred Osimbo Lichuma, EBS — over three decades of experience and former Chairperson of the National Gender and Equality Commission.
International & Regional Reach
We undertake domestic, regional and international assignments — bringing world-class legal standards to every matter.
Dedicated Legal Team
Advocates of the High Court of Kenya assigned to your matter from instruction to conclusion.
Plain-Language Communication
We explain your legal position clearly at every stage. No jargon. Just clear, actionable guidance.
Your Intellectual Property Law Team
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions our clients ask about intellectual property law in Kenya.
Trade mark applications are filed with the Kenya Industrial Property Institute (KIPI). The process involves a clearance search, application filing with a representation of the mark and a goods/services specification in the relevant Nice Classification classes, KIPI examination, publication in the Kenya Industrial Property Bulletin, and registration if no opposition is filed within the prescribed period. We manage every stage from search to certificate.
The process typically takes 12–24 months depending on KIPI's current examination load and whether objections or oppositions are raised. Priority can be claimed if you have an earlier application in a Paris Convention country. We monitor the application throughout, respond to any examination reports or oppositions, and keep you informed at every stage.
A trade mark protects brand identifiers — names, logos, slogans — used in commerce in connection with specific goods or services. Copyright protects original creative works (writing, music, software, art, film) automatically upon creation without registration. Both can be strategically combined to maximise brand and content protection. We advise on the right mix of IP rights for your specific assets.
Possibly. If you have a registered trade mark, you can apply for an injunction and damages for infringement. Even without registration, you may have a passing off claim if you can demonstrate established goodwill in your mark and damage caused by the confusion. We assess the strength of your position and advise on the fastest route to stopping the infringing use.
Have a question not covered here? Ask one of our advocates →
Who We Serve
Related Practice Areas
Take the Next Step
Ready to Resolve Your Intellectual Property Law Matter?
Speak with our advocates in Karen, Nairobi or Kakamega. Request a consultation and we will respond the same business day.
Tana House, Karen Shopping Centre, Karen, Along Lang'ata Road, 3rd Floor, Room 309 | Regulated Advocates | Commissioners for Oaths & Notaries Public