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          • Can I register a name without a logo as a trade mark?
          • Do I need to specify colours that I intend to use?
          • What would be considered a series?
          • Does my ownership of the domain name, secure my ownership of the name as my brand?
          • Could I apply to register an "expired" trade mark as a new trade mark?
          • How long does it take to register?
          • How do I apply to register in countries outside the UK?
          • Are there any fundamental differences between a CTM and a UK trade mark?
          • What is trade mark infringement?
          • When do I need to renew my trade mark and how do I do this?
          • Do I have to pay fees for services I have not asked for?
          • Am I breaking the law by using "TM" on my trade mark?
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Reviewed 16 March 2010
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About trade marks

Frequently asked questions

Use of trade marks

  • Can I register a name without a logo as a trade mark?
  • If I register the logo in black and white, does that mean that the registered trade mark would be valid for all colours, or do I need to specify colours that I intend to use?
  • Would joining two words together or keeping a space between two words be considered as a series?
  • Does my ownership of the domain name, which dates back many years, secure my ownership of the name as my brand?
  • If a trade mark status shows "expired" would I be successful in registering it as a new trade mark application or could the previous registrant object?

Registration process

  • How long does it take to register?

Overseas use

  • I want to use my trade mark in countries other than the United Kingdom; do I need to apply directly to the Trade Mark Office in each country?
  • Apart from the cost and the geographic scope of protection, are there any fundamental differences between a community trade mark (CTM) and a UK trade mark?

Infringement

  • What is trade mark infringement?

Renewals

  • When do I need to renew my trade mark and how do I do this?

General issues

  • I’ve received a document that looks like an invoice for an application for a Community Trade Mark (CTM) or to be placed on another trade mark register. Do I have to pay this?
  • Am I breaking the law by using "TM" on my trade mark?

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