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You have developed what you believe to be a unique product. But how do you protect it, and more importantly your name and brand? This is where trademarks come in. Intellectual property protection is the best way you can protect your idea from being taken by someone else.
But how do you register a trademark? These days, registrations are quick and simple, but multi-faceted. In this guide, we take you through the steps required to successfully register a trademark.
Before you register a trademark, you will first need to make sure that nobody else has registered one with the same name or branding. Simultaneously, you should also check to see if a domain name is taken using one of the UK domain names search providers, like UKreg.com. If your name is taken, you’re unlikely to be able to use it, and it would be difficult to claim the domain name name after registering the trademark. Therefore, we recommend that you think up more than one business or brand name. It is also advised that you don’t use generic words. Think of something unique, that is less likely to have already been used, like a made-up word. For example, Zoopla, Zopa, Google, etc.
Please bear in mind that it is difficult to register a word that resembles a trade or occupation and even an adjective. For example, when we tried to register the name ‘BusinessAgent’, we were denied on the basis that it was the name of a trade. We were however, allowed to register the logo.
Below is a brief step-by-step guide to completing your trademark application:
The registration of a trademark does not end after your application. Once you’ve applied you will receive feedback within 20 days. Once received, you will have 2 months to resolve any issues with your application. In the event that your application is opposed, you can either:
Be aware that you won’t be able to register your trade mark until the matter is settled and you may have to pay legal costs if you want to challenge the opposing party.
Once any objections have been resolved, your trade mark will be published and you’ll receive a certificate confirming this.
Authors: Oliver Murphy & Sacha Bright
Disclaimer
To the best of our knowledge, the information we have provided is correct at the time of publishing. Sacha Bright is not a solicitor or accountant and we recommend that you seek professional advice on any topic discussed.
Tagged: business entrepreneur sme trademark guide
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