Guidelines when deciding upon a proposed trademark


When deciding on your trademark, please keep the following in mind: Your trademark has to serve the purpose of distinguishing your goods or services from that of another trader. It must be unique and distinctive. New or made up words are generally stronger and easier to register e.g. Coca-Cola Your trademark cannot include specially protected … Continue reading Guidelines when deciding upon a proposed trademark

Trademark protection, business registration and CIPC


A smart business is one that not only stands out, but is compliant in respect of legal and industry standards and requirements. In order to operate legally in South Africa your company must be registered with CIPC, or the Companies and Intellectual Property Commission. This is formalized in terms of company name, operational activities, ownership … Continue reading Trademark protection, business registration and CIPC

Amendments to your trademark after registration


Amendments After Registration The requests for amendments after registration must be applied for on form TM2, unless it is otherwise specified in the Regulations* and a fee of R19.00 is payable. * For example, an assignment (change of ownership of a trade mark) of a trade mark has to be requested on Form TM6 and … Continue reading Amendments to your trademark after registration

The lighter side of…attorney / client interaction…


So, I'm just a-sittin' here, waiting for South Africa's trademark database to come back online so I can do what I do best...search. The whole sad set-up was shut down Monday due to 'updating the system', but eyewitness accounts have it that the doors are closed to the public, no-one can search, file or do … Continue reading The lighter side of…attorney / client interaction…