Registering company name

[AugAudio]

I'm starting out as a sole trader -- not yet registered as pre-set up, and have a year to do so.

I want to know:
- how I can register my company name, and whether this is the same as trademarking a name. (I assume there is a difference here) Should I trademark, register a name or set up a dormant company, or do these describe the same process?
- Can I use a name that is also being used by another company registered with Companies House or is this prohibited?
- Can I use my company name without registering it?
- I want to register my name without yet registering as a sole trader as I've not made income yet / I'm not properly set up. At the very earliest stages.

There may be some errors/confusion in my post - I'm very new to legal compliance & business.

Thanks in advance -
August

 

[obscure]

You should trademark the name that you want to trade under.

Registering a (dormant) company is pointless as it does not give you any rights to trade under that name. It might be useful if you plan to go Ltd in the near future but for protecting a trading name it is Trademark registration you need.

 

[Scalloway]

Can I use a name that is also being used by another company registered with Companies House or is this prohibited

Can I use my company name without registering it

Companies House will not let you register a name that is the same as or very similar to one that is already registered. As a sole trader you can use a trading name without needing to register it anywhere but if an existing business is already using it you may be in trouble.

I want to register my name without yet registering as a sole trader

You can only do this if you register a company with Companies House or register a trademark.

 

[MyAccountantOnline]

....
- Can I use a name that is also being used by another company registered with Companies House ....

Another consideration - is it wise to do that?

Is it really worth the potential legal issues and confusion this is going to create?

 

[Panoramix IP]

Irrespective of the name you choose to use, you should determine whether anyone else has earlier rights in the name in connection with similar goods and/or services. While registering a trade mark yourself is relatively straightforward, understanding the risks of using a particular name is not. I would recommend speaking with an IP lawyer to help you weigh up the options.

 

[Mark T Jones]

At this stage there are only 2 parties who care about your brand. You, and anyone who feels you are conflicting with them

first step is to avoid the latter with some research

if you truly believe your brand is going to be important then you can trademark it (possibly)

alternatively, buying the company name and associated domains will give you precedence and make it difficult for others to copy (at an ongoing cost!)