Cheapest way to register a trademark?

[igloorpo]

I was wondering if anyone might be able to tell me the cheapest way to register a trademark? I don't mind doing paperwork myself if it saves money. I just don't want to invest a load of money in registering it until I know the venture is going to work but am keen to secure the trademark as I know it's an idea that may get stolen quickly if I don't snap it up!

Thanks!

 

[Lime One]

We provide full or partial trademark services. For a fixed fee quote please submit the form here and we can let you know the various services with costs.

http://www.limeone.com/home/Trademarks_and_Copyright/Trademarks_UK_and_International

 

[KidsBeeHappy]

You can do it yourself. That way you only pay the IPO fees.

If you are sensible, do the same type of checks yourself that that trademark attorney would;

• Are you protecting Mark or Word.
• If word, is your word "generic". Is it just a general word that appears in the dictionary and common laguage? If so, you are unlikely to be able to protect it.
• If mark, is your mark like anyone else's mark, even if the text included is different.
• Check the classes that you wish to register for any similar marks on the IPO website
• Check other classes too, partic if your trademark is similar to another big/well known trademark in other areas on the IPO website.
• Perform a detailed google, looking for similar named companies, and also other thing
• Is the companies house name taken.
• Are the domain names in your trademark taken, are some taken and some free, if some are taken (partic .com etc) then its probable that someone else is trading under the same name.
• Check out the EC trademarks, as anything registered under an EC trademark receives UK protection. Extend your search into Europe if necessary.

If you're happy then prepare and submit your application. But if your application fails you don't get your application fee returned.

The IPO will give an initial assessment, if they are happy they will publish it in the gazette.

If someone objects - then I recommend getting an IPO attorney involved.

If no-one ojects you get your trademark - 3 months after publication.

Hope that helps

 

[Lime One]

The IPO provide a lot of DIY information but can only offer 'guidance'. They will take no responsibility for this if the mark is refused or opposed or if the initial application categories do not fully cover all the activities of the business (a very common cost saving mistake). If you really do want to do this alone entirely then you can also look at local Universities, many of them offer free IP clinics.

 

[KidsBeeHappy]

Also, your local business link/gateway may have an IPO advisor, usually they share one between 3 or 4 offices.