Protect your business with trademarks
A trademark is a recognisable sign, design, or expression that identifies products or services from a particular source and distinguishes them from others. Trademarks play a crucial role in branding and marketing, providing legal protection for brand identity.
There are various types of trademarks such as word marks which are brand names or slogans written in a standard character format, design marks which include logos, fonts, or specific designs, or a combination of both that incorporate both words and designs.
Trademarks can be registered with national authorities, or within a European Union system, or an international registration. Trademarking your business can give you exclusive rights, legal protection, brand recognition and value.
To register a trademark in Malta, one will be required to follow these general steps:
Preliminary Research: Conduct a thorough search to ensure that your desired trademark is not already registered or being used by someone else.
Application Process: Obtain the application forms and fill out with accurate and complete information regarding the trademark, applicant details, and the goods or services the trademark will be used for.
Documentation and Submission: Prepare the required supporting documents, and proof of payment for the application fee. The application fee varies depending on the type of trademark and the number of classes it falls under. Submit the application form along with the supporting documents.
Examination and Publication: The department will examine your trademark application to ensure compliance with the applicable laws and regulations. If the application is accepted, it will be published in the journal for public scrutiny.
Registration and Certificate: If no opposition is raised within the specified period, and there are no other issues with the application, the department will proceed with the registration. Once registered, you will receive a Certificate of Registration.
It’s important to note that the process and specific requirements may vary slightly. To ensure the procedure goes smoothly, seek professional advice from a firm like Fairwinds Management. Contact us today for a quote: info@fairwindsmanagement.net. Trademarks are vital for protecting brand identity and ensuring that businesses can differentiate their products and services in the marketplace. Registering and maintaining trademarks involves understanding legal requirements, regular monitoring, and enforcement against potential infringements and our team of experts on trademarks in Malta will be able to assist you.
Fairwinds Management Limited is a MFSA licensed firm offering Business Solutions in Malta. As part of our services, we offer Accounting, Administration, Corporate and Legal solutions. Fairwinds Management also manages the brand Accounting Services. More information about us and our key services please visit our website. You may reach Fairwinds Management on +356 2704 0903 or info@fairwindsmanagement.net.
Article written by Ms Charlene Sciberras, B.A. (Hons), guest writer, a marketing and business administration specialist with a special focus on corporate, accounting, and legal matters.
This article was originally published here: https://fairwindsmanagement.net/protect-your-business-with-trademarks/
