Step 1. Trademark Search

We recommend the first step is to undertake a search of existing records to ascertain if there are any potential conflicts with your proposed trademark application. We undertake a comprehensive search and with each search we do we include a concise and easy to understand report, outlining any risks you face and detailing the best approach for moving forward. The results of the search report will allow us to tailor your trademark application to ensure the best possible chance of your trade mark proceeding without obstacle. 

Step 2. Trademark Lodgment

Once you are ready to lodge your trademark we work with you to ensure the best possible coverage for the goods and services you deliver to your customers. There are currently 45 different classes in the "International classification system" that define goods and services, ensuring your application is in the correct class and covering the correct goods or service is vitally important.

Step 3. Trademark Examination

Once the application is filed the Trademark Office undertakes an ‘examination’ process. Here the Trademark Office checks that there are no similar trademarks, your proposed trademark is not generic or descriptive and other matters. If there are any problems the Trade Mark Office will send us a written report outlining such. If we have completed a search on your behalf (see 1 above), we are likely to be aware of any potential problems.

The time taken to register a trademark is somewhat determined by the number of problems the Trademark Office raises in their ‘examination’ of the application. Typically trademarks take around 12 months or more to proceed from filing to registration. So the sooner we get your application underway the sooner your trademark can be protected.

Step 4. Trademark Registration

After the Trade Mark Office has examined your application and it is satisfied there are no problems, (or we have overcome any problems) your application will be advertised in an official Trademarks Journal to allow third parties the opportunity to oppose it. Once your trademark has been advertised and providing there are no oppositions, we need to pay the correct registration fee and the trademark will be registered and we will receive the official Certificate of Registration.

Once registered the trademark is now an asset for you or your company and you have the sole right to use, license or sell the mark as you see fit. A trademark can last indefinitely provided the renewal fee is paid which we monitor for you, free of charge when you engage us to file your trademark.