The Ultimate Brand Protection Guide
The trademark (trademark) is one of the most valuable assets of a business. It is the legal identity of a brand and ensures that your name, logo or distinctive feature may not be used by third parties without permission.
The registration of a trademark offers businesses exclusive rights of use, preventing copying or confusion in the market. In addition, it helps to enhance brand awareness and value, protecting it both in national and international level.
In this detailed guide, we will look at:
- What is the trademark and why it is important.
- How it is registered and what protection options are available.
- The legal rights acquired by a trade mark proprietor.
- What to do if you find someone is using your signal illegally.
What is a Trademark and Why is it Important?;
An trademark is a distinctive feature that allows a business to stand out from the competition. In practice, it can be a name, logo, slogan, symbol, even a sound that is exclusively related to the brand.
Trademark registration is crucial, as it provides legal protection and prevents other companies from using similar elements that may confuse consumers.
The main benefits of trademark registration include:
- Exclusive rights of use in specific product or service categories.
- Legal protection against counterfeiting and unfair competition.
- Strengthening brand awareness in the market.
- Increasing the value of the business, as a patented trademark may be transferred, sold or licensed.
- Facilitating global expansion, as the registration allows for the extension of protection at international level through the EUIPO (EU) or WIPO (worldwide registration).
How is a Trademark Registered?;
Η trademark registration requires a structured procedure which includes legal and administrative procedures. The protection of your brand can be achieved in three levels:
1. Registration at National Level (Greece - OBI)
If you operate only in Greece, you can register your trademark through the Industrial Property Organisation (OBI). This registration protects your brand only within Greece.
2. Registration at European level (EUIPO - EU)
If your business operates in more than one EU country, the best option is to register your trademark through the EUIPO (European Union Intellectual Property Office). The European Logo (EUTM) offers legal protection in all EU countries with a single application.
3. International Registration (WIPO - Madrid System)
If your brand has an international presence, you can apply for international registration through WIPO (World intellectual property Organization) through the Madrid system. With a single application, you can protect your trademark in 120+ countries.
What To Do If Someone Is Using Your Mark Unlawfully
The illegal use of a trademark is a serious matter. If you find that a third party is using your trademark trademark without permission, follow these steps:
- Check if there is a real violation by searching the trademark databases (OVI, EUIPO, WIPO).
- Submit an objection if someone tries to register a similar mark.
- Send cease & desist letter (legal notice of termination).
- File a lawsuit if the infringement continues, seeking compensation and legal protection.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- You do not perform an availability search before vesting, resulting in your signal being rejected.
- You do not register your trademark internationally, if your business operates in other countries.
- You do not track the market, allowing competitors to use your brand.
- You do not renew the registration every 10 years, leading to a loss of your rights.
What DARC Advertising can do for your business
Η DARC Advertising shall be specified in the registration procedure trademarks at national, European and international level. From the availability survey until issue of the certificate of registration, we ensure that your brand is fully protected.
Tags: trademark, trademark registration, brand protection, legal trademark rights, EUIPO, logo registration, copyright, brand security, brand security, brand registration
Short description: Learn how to register your trademark and protect your brand nationally and internationally.
