Trademark Registration

Your brand is your business identity. Trademark registration gives you exclusive rights to use your brand names, logos, and distinctive signs, preventing competitors from copying your valuable brand assets.

What Our Trademark Registration Solicitors Can Help With

• UK Trademark Applications: Registering trademarks with the UK Intellectual Property Office
• EU Trademark Registration: European Union-wide trademark protection
• International Trademarks: Madrid Protocol applications for global protection
• Trademark Searches: Comprehensive clearance searches before application
• Opposition Proceedings: Defending against trademark objections
• Trademark Renewals: Maintaining your trademark registrations
• Trademark Portfolio Management: Strategic management of multiple trademark assets
• Trademark Licensing: Creating revenue streams through trademark licensing

What Can Be Trademarked

Registrable Signs:

• Words, names, and slogans
• Logos, symbols, and designs
• Shapes and packaging
• Colours and colour combinations
• Sounds and musical jingles
• Three-dimensional shapes
• Position marks and patterns

Requirements for Registration:

• Distinctive: Must distinguish your goods/services from others
• Non-descriptive: Cannot simply describe the goods/services
• Not confusing: Must not conflict with existing trademarks
• Not deceptive: Cannot mislead consumers
• Lawful: Cannot be offensive or against public policy

UK Trademark Registration Process

1. Trademark Search: Comprehensive search of existing registrations
2. Application Preparation: Drafting application with proper classification
3. Filing: Submitting application to UK IPO with fees
4. Examination: UK IPO reviews application for registrability
5. Publication: Published for opposition (2-month period)
6. Registration: Certificate issued if no successful oppositions
7. Renewal: Renewals required every 10 years

Trademark Classes and Costs

Nice Classification System:

• Classes 1-34: Goods
• Classes 35-45: Services
• Each class covers specific types of goods/services
• Strategic class selection crucial for effective protection

UK Trademark Costs:

• 1 class: £170 official fee
• 2 classes: £220 official fee
• Each additional class: £50
• Legal fees: £500-£1,500 per application
• Search fees: £200-£500
• Opposition defence: £2,000-£10,000+

International Trademark Protection

EU Trademark (EUTM):

• Protection across all 27 EU member states
• €850 for up to 3 classes
• Single application covers entire EU
• Still valid post-Brexit for EU protection

Madrid Protocol:

• Single application for multiple countries
• Based on UK application or registration
• Cost-effective for 3+ countries
• Covers 100+ member countries worldwide

Common Trademark Mistakes to Avoid

• Insufficient Searches: Not identifying conflicting marks before applying
• Wrong Classes: Selecting inappropriate or insufficient classes
• Descriptive Terms: Attempting to register purely descriptive words
• Poor Specification: Vague or incorrect goods/services descriptions
• Missing Deadlines: Failing to respond to examination or opposition deadlines
• Inadequate Use: Not using registered trademarks properly

Why Choose SolicitorConnect for Trademark Registration

• Trademark Specialists: Solicitors focusing exclusively on trademark law
• Strategic Guidance: Business-focused trademark portfolio advice
• International Expertise: Global trademark protection experience
• High Success Rates: Proven track record of successful registrations
• Cost-Effective Service: Competitive fees with transparent pricing
• Ongoing Support: Trademark maintenance and enforcement services

Professional trademark registration significantly increases your chances of successful registration and effective brand protection.

This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal advice tailored to your situation, please consult with a qualified solicitor.