Benefits of Registering a Trademark in Canada

A trademark is a symbol, word or particular design utilized by a person or business to differential their goods and services from others. A trademark does not have to be registered to be considered a trademark, however registering a trademark provides an owner with greater protection and more options in the event of infringement by a third party.

Canada has a detailed procedure to rightfully register the trademarks with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office of Canada. The process begins with the filing of an application, followed by formalization to ensure all requirements for a filing date are met, the initial examination, approval, advertisement in the trademarks journal, allowance and finally the registration.

So, what are the benefits of registering a trademark in Canada:

Legal Protection

After registering a trademark, it acquires nationwide trademark protection across Canada for a span of fifteen years, after which it can be renewed. In relation to the goods and services the company offers, the trademark earns full proof protection. The absence of geographical restrictions makes it easier for further safeguarding the trademark, although the operation exists in a distinct part of the country, giving you the luxury of enjoying exclusive rights across the country.

Prevent Infringement

The registration of the trademark in Canada serves as a reminder to the citizens that any other company legally cannot obtain a similar name, logo or design for their respective business in the same field as the trademark pwner. The advanced search engine will depict you as the sole proprietor thus compelling other companies to dismiss that particular name, logo, design etc for their respective business.

Legal Options

Another recognizable benefit is that after registration of trademarking is that you gain legal protection. This allows you to take legal action if another organisation tries to use your trademark without prior consultation. You can take action when your trademark is infringed

Pursue Civil Litigation

Registered trademark owners have the liberty to sue infringers and possess the right to appeal for a nationwide injunction from the Federal Court of Canada. The party using your trademark is further challenged and ultimately must provide evidence that there is no confusion between their use and your trademark registration. Your trademark registration can be used as evidence of your ownership of the trademark.

Better Franchising

Licensing your trademarks for franchises or even seeking investors becomes easier after the legal procedures of registration are completed. You may have the opportunity to further expand your business on all fronts, gaining more financial security as well as allowing your business to flourish.

Protect Domain Name

In Canada, a domain name can be very valuable. When choosing your domain name, it can be beneficial to review the trademarks database and list of already existing domain names before choosing which one to use. If you have a registered trademark and someone is using your trademark within a domain name, it may be possible to stop their use.

These are few of the benefits of registering a trademark in Canada and the preliminary stage begins by applying at the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO).