Trademarks – Are They Necessary?

Do I need a trademark?

If you are offering goods and/or services to the public under a particular brand or logo then you should consider trademark protection.

What is a trademark?

A trademark can be a word, sound or design that distinguishes one company's goods or services from those of others in the marketplace.

How do you obtain a trademark?

To secure a trademark, the process is relatively simple:

1. A search is conducted to ensure that there aren't any similar marks either registered or in common law use;
2. An application is then filed with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (“CIPO”) and then examined to ensure that it complies with the Trade-marks Act;
3. After the examination is completed, the application will either receive an Approval Notice or an Office Action;