Intellectual Property enforcement


From CIPC:   Intellectual property (IP) enforcement When a right holder discovers that his intellectual property (IP) rights have been infringed, or are about to be infringed, the focus of his attention shifts. He may have previously concentrated on how to obtain and make use of his respective rights, but now his attention will concentrate … Continue reading Intellectual Property enforcement

What are class and classifications in trademarks?


CLASS AND CLASSIFICATION Products ("goods") and services are organised by CIPC according to specific categories, or "classes." If you wish to use a trademark to cover more than a single product or service, and those products or services fall into more than a single class (for example, motorcycles and clothing) additional fees are required for … Continue reading What are class and classifications in trademarks?

What are the benefits of a registered trademark?


Many people assume they can protect their trademark simply by using the mark in commerce. It is true that you are not required to register a trademark to achieve some level of protection and that one establishes common law rights simply by using a mark in commerce. However, having a nationally registered trademark on the … Continue reading What are the benefits of a registered trademark?

Thou shalt not covet your competitor’s trademark


What is infringement of a trademark? Simply put (as if anything in legalese is ever simple!), it is the unauthorised use of a mark in the course of trade. OK, what does that really mean in plain English? Four types of infringement of a trademark can be identified. Where the likelihood exists that the consumer … Continue reading Thou shalt not covet your competitor’s trademark