Trade Mark FAQs

Q  Should I use ™ or ® ? 

A  In most jurisdictions, ® denotes a registered trade mark, whereas ™ can be used against an unregistered or a registered trade mark and simply informs the public that the user considers it to be their mark

Q  Can I get a global trade mark registration?

A  No. You can register trade marks globally, but they are territorial, requiring a separate registration in each country.

Q  Do I have to do clearance searches before I use or apply to register a new brand?

A  You don't have to do anything. But I recommend that you do. Google searches won't tell you whether or not a name or logo is available .

Q  Can I register an everyday word as a trade mark?

A  Yes, provided it doesn't describe things like the kind, quality or characteristics of the goods or services it will be used on.

Q  How long does my trade mark registration last?

A  In almost all countries trade marks are renewable every 10 years. They can be renewed indefinitely but may be cancelled by trade marks offices or third parties if they are not used, or if they are used in a different form to the one registered.