Protecting a brand name.
WHAT IT PROVIDES
Exclusive rights to use the mark for the registered goods or services.
WHAT IT DOES NOT PROVIDE
Rights in unrelated categories.
WHERE IT IS DONE
The trademarks registry within the relevant ministry.
WHAT IS REQUIRED
The mark, in the form to be registered The class or classes of goods or services Applicant details A power of attorney, where an agent files
WHAT CLASSES ARE
A standard international classification of goods and services.
WHY THEY MATTER
Protection is limited to the classes registered.
WHAT TO DO
Register in every class you operate in, or intend to.
WHAT THE PROCESS BROADLY INVOLVES
A search for conflicting marks Filing the application Acceptance and publication An opposition period Registration and certificate
WHY THE SEARCH MATTERS
Filing against an existing mark wastes time and fees.
WHAT OPPOSITION MEANS
A period in which others may object.
WHAT TO EXPECT
A process measured in many months.
WHAT TO KEEP
The acceptance letter, and the certificate.
WHAT RENEWAL REQUIRES
Periodic renewal, per the prescribed term.
WHAT TO CALENDAR
That renewal.
WHAT TO ENGAGE
An agent experienced in the registry.
WHY
Procedure and classification errors cause substantial delay.
