{"ab":false,"abStatus":null,"abTestId":null,"abVariation":false,"abVariationAutomated":false,"absoluteUrl":"https://www.frontrowinsurance.com/articles/what-is-a-trade-mark","afterPostBody":null,"aifeatures":null,"allowedSlugConflict":false,"analytics":null,"analyticsPageId":"3036424949","analyticsPageType":"blog-post","approvalStatus":null,"archived":false,"archivedAt":0,"archivedInDashboard":false,"areCommentsAllowed":true,"attachedStylesheets":[],"audienceAccess":"PUBLIC","author":null,"authorName":null,"authorUsername":null,"blogAuthor":{"avatar":"","bio":"","cdnPurgeEmbargoTime":null,"cosObjectType":"BLOG_AUTHOR","created":1435092028195,"deletedAt":0,"displayName":"Tarek Elneweihi","email":"","facebook":"","fullName":"Tarek Elneweihi","gravatarUrl":null,"hasSocialProfiles":false,"id":3035893110,"label":"Tarek Elneweihi","language":"en","linkedin":"","name":"Tarek Elneweihi","portalId":61352,"slug":"tarek-elneweihi","translatedFromId":null,"translations":{},"twitter":"","twitterUsername":"","updated":1666901224855,"userId":null,"username":null,"website":""},"blogAuthorId":3035893110,"blogPostAuthor":{"avatar":"","bio":"","cdnPurgeEmbargoTime":null,"cosObjectType":"BLOG_AUTHOR","created":1435092028195,"deletedAt":0,"displayName":"Tarek Elneweihi","email":"","facebook":"","fullName":"Tarek Elneweihi","gravatarUrl":null,"hasSocialProfiles":false,"id":3035893110,"label":"Tarek Elneweihi","language":"en","linkedin":"","name":"Tarek Elneweihi","portalId":61352,"slug":"tarek-elneweihi","translatedFromId":null,"translations":{},"twitter":"","twitterUsername":"","updated":1666901224855,"userId":null,"username":null,"website":""},"blogPostScheduleTaskUid":null,"blogPublishInstantEmailCampaignId":null,"blogPublishInstantEmailRetryCount":null,"blogPublishInstantEmailTaskUid":"DONE","blogPublishToSocialMediaTask":"DONE_NOT_SENT","blueprintTypeId":0,"businessUnitId":null,"campaign":"","campaignName":"","campaignUtm":null,"category":3,"categoryId":3,"cdnPurgeEmbargoTime":null,"checkPostLevelAudienceAccessFirst":true,"clonedFrom":null,"composeBody":null,"compositionId":0,"contentAccessRuleIds":[],"contentAccessRuleTypes":[],"contentGroup":952267656,"contentGroupId":952267656,"contentTypeCategory":3,"contentTypeCategoryId":3,"contentTypeId":null,"created":1435338770000,"createdById":313859,"createdTime":1435338770000,"crmObjectId":null,"css":{},"cssText":"","ctaClicks":null,"ctaViews":null,"currentState":"PUBLISHED","currentlyPublished":true,"deletedAt":0,"deletedBy":null,"deletedByEmail":null,"deletedById":null,"domain":"","dynamicPageDataSourceId":null,"dynamicPageDataSourceType":null,"dynamicPageHubDbTableId":null,"enableDomainStylesheets":null,"enableGoogleAmpOutputOverride":false,"enableLayoutStylesheets":null,"errors":[],"featuredImage":"https://61352.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/61352/blog-image-uploads/trademark-shutterstock_2032604168-forweb600.jpg","featuredImageAltText":"Trademark stamp: What is a Trademark?","featuredImageHeight":400,"featuredImageLength":0,"featuredImageWidth":600,"flexAreas":{},"folderId":null,"footerHtml":null,"freezeDate":1435355100000,"generateJsonLdEnabledOverride":true,"hasContentAccessRules":false,"hasUserChanges":true,"headHtml":null,"header":null,"htmlTitle":"What is a Trademark? Trademarks Explained","id":3036424949,"includeDefaultCustomCss":null,"isCaptchaRequired":true,"isCrawlableByBots":false,"isDraft":false,"isInstanceLayoutPage":false,"isInstantEmailEnabled":true,"isPublished":true,"isSocialPublishingEnabled":false,"keywords":[],"label":"<span id=\"hs_cos_wrapper_name\" class=\"hs_cos_wrapper hs_cos_wrapper_meta_field hs_cos_wrapper_type_text\" style=\"\" data-hs-cos-general-type=\"meta_field\" data-hs-cos-type=\"text\" >What is a Trademark? Trademarks Explained</span>","language":"en","lastEditSessionId":null,"lastEditUpdateId":null,"layoutSections":{},"legacyBlogTabid":null,"legacyId":null,"legacyPostGuid":null,"linkRelCanonicalUrl":null,"listTemplate":"prox_frontrow/templates/blog/blog-listing.html","liveDomain":"www.frontrowinsurance.com","mab":false,"mabExperimentId":null,"mabMaster":false,"mabVariant":false,"meta":{"has_user_changes":true,"author_username":"nedia@frontrowinsurance.com","blog_publish_instant_email_task_uid":"DONE","use_featured_image":true,"topic_ids":[2961176071,3033106217],"author_user_id":4012692,"rss_summary":"<h1><img width=\"300\" align=\"left\" style=\"width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;\" alt=\"Trademark logo\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/Trade.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"></h1>\n<p>A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.</p>\n","featured_image":"https://61352.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/61352/blog-image-uploads/trademark-shutterstock_2032604168-forweb600.jpg","keywords":[],"campaign_name":"","post_summary":"<h1><img width=\"300\" align=\"left\" style=\"width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;\" alt=\"Trademark logo\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/Trade.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"></h1>\n<p>A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.</p>\n","meta_description":"If you are looking for a unique identity in the business place, read the following article about trademarks and how they can help improve your business.","html_title":"What is a Trademark? Trademarks Explained","post_body":"\n\n\n\n <span id=\"hs_cos_wrapper_post_body\" class=\"hs_cos_wrapper hs_cos_wrapper_meta_field hs_cos_wrapper_type_rich_text\" style=\"\" data-hs-cos-general-type=\"meta_field\" data-hs-cos-type=\"rich_text\" ><h1><img width=\"300\" align=\"left\" style=\"width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;\" alt=\"Trademark logo\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/Trade.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"></h1>\n<p>A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.</p>\n<!--more--><p>Trademarks come to represent not only actual wares and services, but also the reputation of the producer. As such, they are considered valuable intellectual property. A registered trademark can be protected through legal proceedings from misuse and imitation.</p>\n<p>A trademark can be any special element used to promote and distinguish your business and the services and products you sell. This means that a trademark could be a logo, a name, a slogan, colours, packaging or sounds.</p>\n<p>You can also trademark a description that is not typically associated with a product or service so along as the description is not misleading and original coined terms that don’t have a dictionary definition.</p>\n<p>Business and company names that are too descriptive, using words or practices that are commonly used do not usually qualify and make for weaker marks in any event.</p>\n<p>Examples of well-known trademarks include the CBC logo, Molson’s “I am Canadian” slogan, and the Vancouver Canucks logo and name that appears in the player’s jerseys. As you know, these logos, names and slogans are synonymous with a brand's identity.</p>\n<h2>Who can register a trademark?</h2>\n<p>Companies, individuals, partnerships, trade unions and lawful associations may obtain registration of their marks of identification for wares or services, provided they meet the requirements of the <em>Trademarks Act</em> and <em>Regulations</em>.</p>\n<h2>Should you register a trademark?</h2>\n<p>Just as a marriage can be registered officially or remain common-law, so can a trademark. That means a trademark exists and you have legal rights around it as soon as you start using it. But, a common law trademark does not offer the same legal protection as a registered trademark and so it is highly recommended that you register your trademark to ensure that you have the greatest legal protection and avoid legal issues down the road.</p>\n<p>Registration of your trademark gives you the exclusive right to use the mark across Canada for 15 years, renewable every 15 years thereafter. If you wish to apply for a trademark in other countries, you must apply to those countries.</p>\n<p>Registration is prima facie, or “at first sight” evidence of your ownership. In a dispute, the registered trademark owner does not have to prove ownership of the trademark as it is initially assumed that the registered trademark is indeed the owner. It is the responsibility of the person or entity challenging your use of the trademark to prove that it is in fact the owner, which is difficult to do if the person or entity is not the registered owner. Use of an unregistered trademark can lead to a lengthy, expensive legal dispute over who has the right to use it.</p>\n<p><strong>Consider this scenario</strong>: For the past five years, you have been operating a highly successful ice cream emporium under the word “Northpole” in your home town of Nova Scotia. You have never heard of another Northpole and you have never bothered with trademark registration. Meanwhile, an Ontario firm has registered the trademark “Northpole” to identify its growing chain of spaghetti diners and home brand tomato sauce. While conducting research for a Maritime expansion plan, the Ontario firm discovers your store and serves you with a lawsuit. Depending on the facts established with the Court, this may result in a court order preventing you from using the word “Northpole.” This development couldn’t come at a worse time, since you were just planning to expand your own business. The situation could have been avoided if you had solidified your clear rights to the trademark through registration.</p>\n<p>Keep in mind also that a registered trademark is a valuable asset for business expansion through licensing franchises. Note as well that if you fail to use the mark for an extended period, your registration may be cancelled.</p>\n<h2>How to file an application to register a trademark</h2>\n<p>To apply for a trademark registration, an application is filed together with the appropriate documentation and fee to the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO). The application undergoes stringent examination to ensure it meets the requirements of the <em>Trademarks Act</em>.&nbsp;</p>\n<h2>Trademark agents</h2>\n<p>Preparing a trademark application and following through on it can be a complex task, particularly if a third party challenges your right to the mark. You may file on your own, but it is highly recommended that you hire a trademark agent to do so on your behalf.</p>\n<p>In order to become a trademark agent, a Canadian resident must have worked in the field of trademarks for at least 24 months, and have passed the qualifying examination. A resident of Canada who is a barrister or solicitor, or a notary in the Province of Quebec, may become a trade- mark agent by passing the qualifying examination or working in the area of trademark law for at least 24 months.</p>\n<p>An experienced, competent trademark agent who is well-briefed can save you problems caused by such obstacles as a poorly-prepared application or inadequate research. If you intend to register marks in other countries, the use of a trademark agent is even more strongly recommended.</p>\n<h3>Related Post:</h3>\n<a href=\"/articles/articles/bid/10796/title-reports-who-needs-them-e-o-insurance\" rel=\" noopener\" style=\"background-color: transparent; font-weight: 300;\">Title Reports</a>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"></span> <img width=\"229\" align=\"right\" style=\"width: 229px; float: right; margin: 0px 8px 16px 12px;\" alt=\"Tarek Elneweihi headshot\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/tarek.jpg\"><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\"><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Tarek Elneweihi</span></strong></span></p>\n<ul>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">Associate</span></li>\n<li>Musician and music producer handling litigation files and entertainment contract</li>\n<li>Called in BC (2013)</li>\n<li><a href=\"mailto:tare@arenaltman.com\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">tarek@arenaltman.com</a></li>\n</ul>\n</ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-style: italic;\"><strong>ALTMAN &amp; COMPANY</strong>&nbsp;| Business and Entertainment Law Suite #202 – 2245 West Broadway Ave., Vancouver BC V6K 2E4&nbsp;| 604-563-1191&nbsp;| </span><a href=\"mailto:info@arenaaltman.com\" style=\"font-style: italic;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">info@arenaaltman.com</a></p></span>\n","publish_immediately":false,"author_email":"nedia@frontrowinsurance.com","rss_body":"<h1><img width=\"300\" align=\"left\" style=\"width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;\" alt=\"Trademark logo\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/Trade.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"></h1>\n<p>A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.</p>\n<!--more--><p>Trademarks come to represent not only actual wares and services, but also the reputation of the producer. As such, they are considered valuable intellectual property. A registered trademark can be protected through legal proceedings from misuse and imitation.</p>\n<p>A trademark can be any special element used to promote and distinguish your business and the services and products you sell. This means that a trademark could be a logo, a name, a slogan, colours, packaging or sounds.</p>\n<p>You can also trademark a description that is not typically associated with a product or service so along as the description is not misleading and original coined terms that don’t have a dictionary definition.</p>\n<p>Business and company names that are too descriptive, using words or practices that are commonly used do not usually qualify and make for weaker marks in any event.</p>\n<p>Examples of well-known trademarks include the CBC logo, Molson’s “I am Canadian” slogan, and the Vancouver Canucks logo and name that appears in the player’s jerseys. As you know, these logos, names and slogans are synonymous with a brand's identity.</p>\n<h2>Who can register a trademark?</h2>\n<p>Companies, individuals, partnerships, trade unions and lawful associations may obtain registration of their marks of identification for wares or services, provided they meet the requirements of the <em>Trademarks Act</em> and <em>Regulations</em>.</p>\n<h2>Should you register a trademark?</h2>\n<p>Just as a marriage can be registered officially or remain common-law, so can a trademark. That means a trademark exists and you have legal rights around it as soon as you start using it. But, a common law trademark does not offer the same legal protection as a registered trademark and so it is highly recommended that you register your trademark to ensure that you have the greatest legal protection and avoid legal issues down the road.</p>\n<p>Registration of your trademark gives you the exclusive right to use the mark across Canada for 15 years, renewable every 15 years thereafter. If you wish to apply for a trademark in other countries, you must apply to those countries.</p>\n<p>Registration is prima facie, or “at first sight” evidence of your ownership. In a dispute, the registered trademark owner does not have to prove ownership of the trademark as it is initially assumed that the registered trademark is indeed the owner. It is the responsibility of the person or entity challenging your use of the trademark to prove that it is in fact the owner, which is difficult to do if the person or entity is not the registered owner. Use of an unregistered trademark can lead to a lengthy, expensive legal dispute over who has the right to use it.</p>\n<p><strong>Consider this scenario</strong>: For the past five years, you have been operating a highly successful ice cream emporium under the word “Northpole” in your home town of Nova Scotia. You have never heard of another Northpole and you have never bothered with trademark registration. Meanwhile, an Ontario firm has registered the trademark “Northpole” to identify its growing chain of spaghetti diners and home brand tomato sauce. While conducting research for a Maritime expansion plan, the Ontario firm discovers your store and serves you with a lawsuit. Depending on the facts established with the Court, this may result in a court order preventing you from using the word “Northpole.” This development couldn’t come at a worse time, since you were just planning to expand your own business. The situation could have been avoided if you had solidified your clear rights to the trademark through registration.</p>\n<p>Keep in mind also that a registered trademark is a valuable asset for business expansion through licensing franchises. Note as well that if you fail to use the mark for an extended period, your registration may be cancelled.</p>\n<h2>How to file an application to register a trademark</h2>\n<p>To apply for a trademark registration, an application is filed together with the appropriate documentation and fee to the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO). The application undergoes stringent examination to ensure it meets the requirements of the <em>Trademarks Act</em>.&nbsp;</p>\n<h2>Trademark agents</h2>\n<p>Preparing a trademark application and following through on it can be a complex task, particularly if a third party challenges your right to the mark. You may file on your own, but it is highly recommended that you hire a trademark agent to do so on your behalf.</p>\n<p>In order to become a trademark agent, a Canadian resident must have worked in the field of trademarks for at least 24 months, and have passed the qualifying examination. A resident of Canada who is a barrister or solicitor, or a notary in the Province of Quebec, may become a trade- mark agent by passing the qualifying examination or working in the area of trademark law for at least 24 months.</p>\n<p>An experienced, competent trademark agent who is well-briefed can save you problems caused by such obstacles as a poorly-prepared application or inadequate research. If you intend to register marks in other countries, the use of a trademark agent is even more strongly recommended.</p>\n<h3>Related Post:</h3>\n<a href=\"/articles/articles/bid/10796/title-reports-who-needs-them-e-o-insurance\" rel=\" noopener\" style=\"background-color: transparent; font-weight: 300;\">Title Reports</a>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"></span> <img width=\"229\" align=\"right\" style=\"width: 229px; float: right; margin: 0px 8px 16px 12px;\" alt=\"Tarek Elneweihi headshot\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/tarek.jpg\"><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\"><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Tarek Elneweihi</span></strong></span></p>\n<ul>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">Associate</span></li>\n<li>Musician and music producer handling litigation files and entertainment contract</li>\n<li>Called in BC (2013)</li>\n<li><a href=\"mailto:tare@arenaltman.com\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">tarek@arenaltman.com</a></li>\n</ul>\n</ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-style: italic;\"><strong>ALTMAN &amp; COMPANY</strong>&nbsp;| Business and Entertainment Law Suite #202 – 2245 West Broadway Ave., Vancouver BC V6K 2E4&nbsp;| 604-563-1191&nbsp;| </span><a href=\"mailto:info@arenaaltman.com\" style=\"font-style: italic;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">info@arenaaltman.com</a></p>","placement_guids":[],"campaign_utm":null,"css":{},"featured_image_alt_text":"Trademark stamp: What is a Trademark?","enable_google_amp_output_override":false,"css_text":"","last_edit_session_id":null,"last_edit_update_id":null,"tag_ids":[2961176071,3033106217],"link_rel_canonical_url":null,"published_by_id":7915797,"published_at":1666896805116,"blog_publish_to_social_media_task":"DONE_NOT_SENT","head_html":null,"scheduled_update_date":0,"layout_sections":{},"public_access_rules_enabled":false,"public_access_rules":[],"blog_post_schedule_task_uid":null,"featured_image_height":400,"featured_image_width":600,"header":null},"metaDescription":"If you are looking for a unique identity in the business place, read the following article about trademarks and how they can help improve your business.","metaKeywords":null,"name":"<span id=\"hs_cos_wrapper_name\" class=\"hs_cos_wrapper hs_cos_wrapper_meta_field hs_cos_wrapper_type_text\" style=\"\" data-hs-cos-general-type=\"meta_field\" data-hs-cos-type=\"text\" >What is a Trademark? Trademarks Explained</span>","nextPostFeaturedImage":"https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/casting-forweb.jpg","nextPostFeaturedImageAltText":"Cast Insurance for your live show","nextPostName":"Cast Insurance For Live Performances","nextPostSlug":"articles/cast-insurance-for-live-performances-making-the-decision-before-you-have-a-deal","pageExpiryDate":null,"pageExpiryEnabled":null,"pageExpiryRedirectId":null,"pageExpiryRedirectUrl":null,"pageRedirected":false,"pageTitle":"What is a Trademark? Trademarks Explained","parentBlog":{"absoluteUrl":"https://www.frontrowinsurance.com/articles","allowComments":true,"ampBodyColor":"#404040","ampBodyFont":"'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif","ampBodyFontSize":"18","ampCustomCss":"","ampHeaderBackgroundColor":"#ffffff","ampHeaderColor":"#1e1e1e","ampHeaderFont":"'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif","ampHeaderFontSize":"36","ampLinkColor":"#416bb3","ampLogoAlt":"Front Row Insurance logo","ampLogoHeight":63,"ampLogoSrc":"https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/front-row-logo.png","ampLogoWidth":175,"analyticsPageId":137640,"attachedStylesheets":[],"audienceAccess":"PUBLIC","businessUnitId":null,"captchaAfterDays":7,"captchaAlways":false,"categoryId":3,"cdnPurgeEmbargoTime":null,"closeCommentsOlder":0,"commentDateFormat":"medium","commentFormGuid":"7a447743-bbf2-4b55-a759-b405bf392a7d","commentMaxThreadDepth":3,"commentModeration":true,"commentNotificationEmails":["mike@frontrowinsurance.com","grant@frontrowinsurance.com"],"commentShouldCreateContact":true,"commentVerificationText":"","cosObjectType":"BLOG","created":1401900293000,"createdDateTime":1401900293000,"dailyNotificationEmailId":"952268096","dateFormattingLanguage":"en_US","defaultGroupStyleId":"","defaultNotificationFromName":"","defaultNotificationReplyTo":"","deletedAt":0,"description":"The Front Row Insurance Blog where you can learn and converse about all things entertainment insurance related.","domain":"","domainWhenPublished":"www.frontrowinsurance.com","emailApiSubscriptionId":283237,"enableGoogleAmpOutput":true,"enableSocialAutoPublishing":false,"generateJsonLdEnabled":false,"header":null,"htmlFooter":"<!-- DELTA-->","htmlFooterIsShared":false,"htmlHead":"<!-- Blog Schema by Front Row Insurance // https://www.frontrowinsurance.com/ -->\n\n<script type=\"application/ld+json\">\n {\n \"@context\": \"http://schema.org\",\n \"@type\": \"BlogPosting\",\n \"mainEntityOfPage\":{\n \"@type\":\"WebPage\",\n \"@id\":\"https://www.frontrowinsurance.com/articles/what-is-a-trade-mark\"\n },\n \"headline\": \"What is a Trademark? Trademarks Explained\",\n \"image\": {\n \"@type\": \"ImageObject\",\n \"url\": \"https://61352.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/61352/blog-image-uploads/trademark-shutterstock_2032604168-forweb600.jpg\"\n },\n \"datePublished\": \"2015-06-26 21:45:00\",\n \"dateModified\": \"\",\n \"author\": {\n \"@type\": \"Person\",\n \"name\": \"') }}\"\n },\n \"publisher\": {\n \"@type\": \"Organization\",\n \"name\": \"FRONT ROW INSURANCE BROKERS\",\n \"logo\": {\n \"@type\": \"ImageObject\",\n \"url\": \"https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/images/Logos/FR_logo_%5BConverted,-Inverted%5D.png\"\n }\n },\n \"description\": \"If you are looking for a unique identity in the business place, read the following article about trademarks and how they can help improve your business.\"\n }\n </script>\n <!-- End Schema --> \n<script type=\"text/javascript\">\n window._mNHandle = window._mNHandle || {};\n window._mNHandle.queue = window._mNHandle.queue || [];\n medianet_versionId = \"3121199\";\n</script>\n<script src=\"https://contextual.media.net/dmedianet.js?cid=8CU76IWTZ\" async=\"async\"></script>","htmlHeadIsShared":true,"htmlKeywords":["Front Row Insurance Blog"," entertainment blog"," film blog"," film insurance"," event insurance"," film festival blog"," production blog"," musicians blog"," "],"htmlTitle":"The Front Row View (entertainment insurance blog)","id":952267656,"instantNotificationEmailId":"952268061","itemLayoutId":null,"itemTemplateIsShared":false,"itemTemplatePath":"prox_frontrow/templates/blog/blog-post.html","label":"The Front Row View (entertainment insurance blog)","language":"en","legacyGuid":"469ce2ec-4dd9-442d-984a-3bab2557a02f","legacyModuleId":"164112","legacyTabId":137640,"listingLayoutId":null,"listingPageId":70026589976,"listingTemplatePath":"prox_frontrow/templates/blog/blog-listing.html","liveDomain":"www.frontrowinsurance.com","monthFilterFormat":"MMMM yyyy","monthlyNotificationEmailId":"952267981","name":"The Front Row View (entertainment insurance blog)","parentBlogUpdateTaskId":null,"portalId":61352,"postHtmlFooter":"<!-- OMEGA-->","postHtmlHead":"<!-- Blog Schema by Front Row Insurance // https://www.frontrowinsurance.com/ -->\n\n<script type=\"application/ld+json\">\n {\n \"@context\": \"http://schema.org\",\n \"@type\": \"BlogPosting\",\n \"mainEntityOfPage\":{\n \"@type\":\"WebPage\",\n \"@id\":\"https://www.frontrowinsurance.com/articles/what-is-a-trade-mark\"\n },\n \"headline\": \"What is a Trademark? Trademarks Explained\",\n \"image\": {\n \"@type\": \"ImageObject\",\n \"url\": \"https://61352.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/61352/blog-image-uploads/trademark-shutterstock_2032604168-forweb600.jpg\"\n },\n \"datePublished\": \"2015-06-26 21:45:00\",\n \"dateModified\": \"\",\n \"author\": {\n \"@type\": \"Person\",\n \"name\": \"') }}\"\n },\n \"publisher\": {\n \"@type\": \"Organization\",\n \"name\": \"FRONT ROW INSURANCE BROKERS\",\n \"logo\": {\n \"@type\": \"ImageObject\",\n \"url\": \"https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/images/Logos/FR_logo_%5BConverted,-Inverted%5D.png\"\n }\n },\n \"description\": \"If you are looking for a unique identity in the business place, read the following article about trademarks and how they can help improve your business.\"\n }\n </script>\n <!-- End Schema --> \n<script type=\"text/javascript\">\n window._mNHandle = window._mNHandle || {};\n window._mNHandle.queue = window._mNHandle.queue || [];\n medianet_versionId = \"3121199\";\n</script>\n<script src=\"https://contextual.media.net/dmedianet.js?cid=8CU76IWTZ\" async=\"async\"></script>","postsPerListingPage":10,"postsPerRssFeed":10,"publicAccessRules":[],"publicAccessRulesEnabled":false,"publicTitle":"The Front Row View (entertainment insurance blog)","publishDateFormat":"medium","resolvedDomain":"www.frontrowinsurance.com","rootUrl":"https://www.frontrowinsurance.com/articles","rssCustomFeed":"","rssDescription":"RSS feeds for ","rssItemFooter":"<IMG style=\"WIDTH: 144px; HEIGHT: 78px\" title=\"\" border=0 alt=\"\" align=center src=\"http://focusinsurance.web6.hubspot.com/Portals/61352/images//logo_final.jpg\" width=138 height=78 mce_src=\"/Portals/61352/images//logo_final.jpg\">","rssItemHeader":"","settingsOverrides":{"itemLayoutId":false,"itemTemplatePath":false,"itemTemplateIsShared":false,"listingLayoutId":false,"listingTemplatePath":false,"postsPerListingPage":false,"showSummaryInListing":false,"useFeaturedImageInSummary":false,"htmlHead":false,"postHtmlHead":false,"htmlHeadIsShared":false,"htmlFooter":false,"listingPageHtmlFooter":false,"postHtmlFooter":false,"htmlFooterIsShared":false,"attachedStylesheets":false,"postsPerRssFeed":false,"showSummaryInRss":false,"showSummaryInEmails":false,"showSummariesInEmails":false,"allowComments":false,"commentShouldCreateContact":false,"commentModeration":false,"closeCommentsOlder":false,"commentNotificationEmails":false,"commentMaxThreadDepth":false,"commentVerificationText":false,"socialAccountTwitter":false,"showSocialLinkTwitter":false,"showSocialLinkLinkedin":false,"showSocialLinkFacebook":false,"enableGoogleAmpOutput":false,"ampLogoSrc":false,"ampLogoHeight":false,"ampLogoWidth":false,"ampLogoAlt":false,"ampHeaderFont":false,"ampHeaderFontSize":false,"ampHeaderColor":false,"ampHeaderBackgroundColor":false,"ampBodyFont":false,"ampBodyFontSize":false,"ampBodyColor":false,"ampLinkColor":false,"generateJsonLdEnabled":false},"showSocialLinkFacebook":true,"showSocialLinkLinkedin":true,"showSocialLinkTwitter":true,"showSummaryInEmails":true,"showSummaryInListing":false,"showSummaryInRss":true,"siteId":0,"slug":"articles","socialAccountTwitter":"","state":null,"subscriptionContactsProperty":"blog_blog_the_front_row_view_subscription","subscriptionEmailType":null,"subscriptionFormGuid":"a2c254df-2214-4c54-bd51-46da1e3029fb","subscriptionListsByType":{"daily":12,"instant":11,"monthly":10,"weekly":13},"title":null,"translatedFromId":null,"translations":{"fr":{"absoluteUrl":"https://www.frontrowinsurance.com/fr/blogue","id":2471031463,"language":"fr","masterId":952267656,"name":"The Front Row View (entertainment insurance blog)","publicAccessRules":[],"publicAccessRulesEnabled":false,"slug":"fr/blogue"}},"updated":1693318083280,"updatedDateTime":1693318083280,"urlBase":"www.frontrowinsurance.com/articles","urlSegments":{},"useFeaturedImageInSummary":true,"usesDefaultTemplate":false,"weeklyNotificationEmailId":"952268106"},"password":null,"pastMabExperimentIds":[],"performableGuid":"","performableVariationLetter":null,"personas":[],"placementGuids":[],"portableKey":null,"portalId":61352,"position":null,"postBody":"\n\n\n\n <span id=\"hs_cos_wrapper_post_body\" class=\"hs_cos_wrapper hs_cos_wrapper_meta_field hs_cos_wrapper_type_rich_text\" style=\"\" data-hs-cos-general-type=\"meta_field\" data-hs-cos-type=\"rich_text\" ><h1><img width=\"300\" align=\"left\" style=\"width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;\" alt=\"Trademark logo\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/Trade.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"></h1>\n<p>A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.</p>\n<!--more--><p>Trademarks come to represent not only actual wares and services, but also the reputation of the producer. As such, they are considered valuable intellectual property. A registered trademark can be protected through legal proceedings from misuse and imitation.</p>\n<p>A trademark can be any special element used to promote and distinguish your business and the services and products you sell. This means that a trademark could be a logo, a name, a slogan, colours, packaging or sounds.</p>\n<p>You can also trademark a description that is not typically associated with a product or service so along as the description is not misleading and original coined terms that don’t have a dictionary definition.</p>\n<p>Business and company names that are too descriptive, using words or practices that are commonly used do not usually qualify and make for weaker marks in any event.</p>\n<p>Examples of well-known trademarks include the CBC logo, Molson’s “I am Canadian” slogan, and the Vancouver Canucks logo and name that appears in the player’s jerseys. As you know, these logos, names and slogans are synonymous with a brand's identity.</p>\n<h2>Who can register a trademark?</h2>\n<p>Companies, individuals, partnerships, trade unions and lawful associations may obtain registration of their marks of identification for wares or services, provided they meet the requirements of the <em>Trademarks Act</em> and <em>Regulations</em>.</p>\n<h2>Should you register a trademark?</h2>\n<p>Just as a marriage can be registered officially or remain common-law, so can a trademark. That means a trademark exists and you have legal rights around it as soon as you start using it. But, a common law trademark does not offer the same legal protection as a registered trademark and so it is highly recommended that you register your trademark to ensure that you have the greatest legal protection and avoid legal issues down the road.</p>\n<p>Registration of your trademark gives you the exclusive right to use the mark across Canada for 15 years, renewable every 15 years thereafter. If you wish to apply for a trademark in other countries, you must apply to those countries.</p>\n<p>Registration is prima facie, or “at first sight” evidence of your ownership. In a dispute, the registered trademark owner does not have to prove ownership of the trademark as it is initially assumed that the registered trademark is indeed the owner. It is the responsibility of the person or entity challenging your use of the trademark to prove that it is in fact the owner, which is difficult to do if the person or entity is not the registered owner. Use of an unregistered trademark can lead to a lengthy, expensive legal dispute over who has the right to use it.</p>\n<p><strong>Consider this scenario</strong>: For the past five years, you have been operating a highly successful ice cream emporium under the word “Northpole” in your home town of Nova Scotia. You have never heard of another Northpole and you have never bothered with trademark registration. Meanwhile, an Ontario firm has registered the trademark “Northpole” to identify its growing chain of spaghetti diners and home brand tomato sauce. While conducting research for a Maritime expansion plan, the Ontario firm discovers your store and serves you with a lawsuit. Depending on the facts established with the Court, this may result in a court order preventing you from using the word “Northpole.” This development couldn’t come at a worse time, since you were just planning to expand your own business. The situation could have been avoided if you had solidified your clear rights to the trademark through registration.</p>\n<p>Keep in mind also that a registered trademark is a valuable asset for business expansion through licensing franchises. Note as well that if you fail to use the mark for an extended period, your registration may be cancelled.</p>\n<h2>How to file an application to register a trademark</h2>\n<p>To apply for a trademark registration, an application is filed together with the appropriate documentation and fee to the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO). The application undergoes stringent examination to ensure it meets the requirements of the <em>Trademarks Act</em>.&nbsp;</p>\n<h2>Trademark agents</h2>\n<p>Preparing a trademark application and following through on it can be a complex task, particularly if a third party challenges your right to the mark. You may file on your own, but it is highly recommended that you hire a trademark agent to do so on your behalf.</p>\n<p>In order to become a trademark agent, a Canadian resident must have worked in the field of trademarks for at least 24 months, and have passed the qualifying examination. A resident of Canada who is a barrister or solicitor, or a notary in the Province of Quebec, may become a trade- mark agent by passing the qualifying examination or working in the area of trademark law for at least 24 months.</p>\n<p>An experienced, competent trademark agent who is well-briefed can save you problems caused by such obstacles as a poorly-prepared application or inadequate research. If you intend to register marks in other countries, the use of a trademark agent is even more strongly recommended.</p>\n<h3>Related Post:</h3>\n<a href=\"/articles/articles/bid/10796/title-reports-who-needs-them-e-o-insurance\" rel=\" noopener\" style=\"background-color: transparent; font-weight: 300;\">Title Reports</a>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"></span> <img width=\"229\" align=\"right\" style=\"width: 229px; float: right; margin: 0px 8px 16px 12px;\" alt=\"Tarek Elneweihi headshot\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/tarek.jpg\"><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\"><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Tarek Elneweihi</span></strong></span></p>\n<ul>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">Associate</span></li>\n<li>Musician and music producer handling litigation files and entertainment contract</li>\n<li>Called in BC (2013)</li>\n<li><a href=\"mailto:tare@arenaltman.com\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">tarek@arenaltman.com</a></li>\n</ul>\n</ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-style: italic;\"><strong>ALTMAN &amp; COMPANY</strong>&nbsp;| Business and Entertainment Law Suite #202 – 2245 West Broadway Ave., Vancouver BC V6K 2E4&nbsp;| 604-563-1191&nbsp;| </span><a href=\"mailto:info@arenaaltman.com\" style=\"font-style: italic;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">info@arenaaltman.com</a></p></span>\n","postBodyRss":"<h1><img width=\"300\" align=\"left\" style=\"width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;\" alt=\"Trademark logo\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/Trade.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"></h1>\n<p>A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.</p>\n<!--more--><p>Trademarks come to represent not only actual wares and services, but also the reputation of the producer. As such, they are considered valuable intellectual property. A registered trademark can be protected through legal proceedings from misuse and imitation.</p>\n<p>A trademark can be any special element used to promote and distinguish your business and the services and products you sell. This means that a trademark could be a logo, a name, a slogan, colours, packaging or sounds.</p>\n<p>You can also trademark a description that is not typically associated with a product or service so along as the description is not misleading and original coined terms that don’t have a dictionary definition.</p>\n<p>Business and company names that are too descriptive, using words or practices that are commonly used do not usually qualify and make for weaker marks in any event.</p>\n<p>Examples of well-known trademarks include the CBC logo, Molson’s “I am Canadian” slogan, and the Vancouver Canucks logo and name that appears in the player’s jerseys. As you know, these logos, names and slogans are synonymous with a brand's identity.</p>\n<h2>Who can register a trademark?</h2>\n<p>Companies, individuals, partnerships, trade unions and lawful associations may obtain registration of their marks of identification for wares or services, provided they meet the requirements of the <em>Trademarks Act</em> and <em>Regulations</em>.</p>\n<h2>Should you register a trademark?</h2>\n<p>Just as a marriage can be registered officially or remain common-law, so can a trademark. That means a trademark exists and you have legal rights around it as soon as you start using it. But, a common law trademark does not offer the same legal protection as a registered trademark and so it is highly recommended that you register your trademark to ensure that you have the greatest legal protection and avoid legal issues down the road.</p>\n<p>Registration of your trademark gives you the exclusive right to use the mark across Canada for 15 years, renewable every 15 years thereafter. If you wish to apply for a trademark in other countries, you must apply to those countries.</p>\n<p>Registration is prima facie, or “at first sight” evidence of your ownership. In a dispute, the registered trademark owner does not have to prove ownership of the trademark as it is initially assumed that the registered trademark is indeed the owner. It is the responsibility of the person or entity challenging your use of the trademark to prove that it is in fact the owner, which is difficult to do if the person or entity is not the registered owner. Use of an unregistered trademark can lead to a lengthy, expensive legal dispute over who has the right to use it.</p>\n<p><strong>Consider this scenario</strong>: For the past five years, you have been operating a highly successful ice cream emporium under the word “Northpole” in your home town of Nova Scotia. You have never heard of another Northpole and you have never bothered with trademark registration. Meanwhile, an Ontario firm has registered the trademark “Northpole” to identify its growing chain of spaghetti diners and home brand tomato sauce. While conducting research for a Maritime expansion plan, the Ontario firm discovers your store and serves you with a lawsuit. Depending on the facts established with the Court, this may result in a court order preventing you from using the word “Northpole.” This development couldn’t come at a worse time, since you were just planning to expand your own business. The situation could have been avoided if you had solidified your clear rights to the trademark through registration.</p>\n<p>Keep in mind also that a registered trademark is a valuable asset for business expansion through licensing franchises. Note as well that if you fail to use the mark for an extended period, your registration may be cancelled.</p>\n<h2>How to file an application to register a trademark</h2>\n<p>To apply for a trademark registration, an application is filed together with the appropriate documentation and fee to the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO). The application undergoes stringent examination to ensure it meets the requirements of the <em>Trademarks Act</em>.&nbsp;</p>\n<h2>Trademark agents</h2>\n<p>Preparing a trademark application and following through on it can be a complex task, particularly if a third party challenges your right to the mark. You may file on your own, but it is highly recommended that you hire a trademark agent to do so on your behalf.</p>\n<p>In order to become a trademark agent, a Canadian resident must have worked in the field of trademarks for at least 24 months, and have passed the qualifying examination. A resident of Canada who is a barrister or solicitor, or a notary in the Province of Quebec, may become a trade- mark agent by passing the qualifying examination or working in the area of trademark law for at least 24 months.</p>\n<p>An experienced, competent trademark agent who is well-briefed can save you problems caused by such obstacles as a poorly-prepared application or inadequate research. If you intend to register marks in other countries, the use of a trademark agent is even more strongly recommended.</p>\n<h3>Related Post:</h3>\n<a href=\"/articles/articles/bid/10796/title-reports-who-needs-them-e-o-insurance\" rel=\" noopener\" style=\"background-color: transparent; font-weight: 300;\">Title Reports</a>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"></span> <img width=\"229\" align=\"right\" style=\"width: 229px; float: right; margin: 0px 8px 16px 12px;\" alt=\"Tarek Elneweihi headshot\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/tarek.jpg\"><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\"><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Tarek Elneweihi</span></strong></span></p>\n<ul>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">Associate</span></li>\n<li>Musician and music producer handling litigation files and entertainment contract</li>\n<li>Called in BC (2013)</li>\n<li><a href=\"mailto:tare@arenaltman.com\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">tarek@arenaltman.com</a></li>\n</ul>\n</ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-style: italic;\"><strong>ALTMAN &amp; COMPANY</strong>&nbsp;| Business and Entertainment Law Suite #202 – 2245 West Broadway Ave., Vancouver BC V6K 2E4&nbsp;| 604-563-1191&nbsp;| </span><a href=\"mailto:info@arenaaltman.com\" style=\"font-style: italic;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">info@arenaaltman.com</a></p>","postEmailContent":"<h1></h1> \n<p>A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.</p>","postFeaturedImageIfEnabled":"https://61352.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/61352/blog-image-uploads/trademark-shutterstock_2032604168-forweb600.jpg","postListContent":"\n\n\n\n <span id=\"hs_cos_wrapper_post_body\" class=\"hs_cos_wrapper hs_cos_wrapper_meta_field hs_cos_wrapper_type_rich_text\" style=\"\" data-hs-cos-general-type=\"meta_field\" data-hs-cos-type=\"rich_text\" ><h1><img width=\"300\" align=\"left\" style=\"width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;\" alt=\"Trademark logo\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/Trade.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"></h1>\n<p>A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.</p>\n<!--more--><p>Trademarks come to represent not only actual wares and services, but also the reputation of the producer. As such, they are considered valuable intellectual property. A registered trademark can be protected through legal proceedings from misuse and imitation.</p>\n<p>A trademark can be any special element used to promote and distinguish your business and the services and products you sell. This means that a trademark could be a logo, a name, a slogan, colours, packaging or sounds.</p>\n<p>You can also trademark a description that is not typically associated with a product or service so along as the description is not misleading and original coined terms that don’t have a dictionary definition.</p>\n<p>Business and company names that are too descriptive, using words or practices that are commonly used do not usually qualify and make for weaker marks in any event.</p>\n<p>Examples of well-known trademarks include the CBC logo, Molson’s “I am Canadian” slogan, and the Vancouver Canucks logo and name that appears in the player’s jerseys. As you know, these logos, names and slogans are synonymous with a brand's identity.</p>\n<h2>Who can register a trademark?</h2>\n<p>Companies, individuals, partnerships, trade unions and lawful associations may obtain registration of their marks of identification for wares or services, provided they meet the requirements of the <em>Trademarks Act</em> and <em>Regulations</em>.</p>\n<h2>Should you register a trademark?</h2>\n<p>Just as a marriage can be registered officially or remain common-law, so can a trademark. That means a trademark exists and you have legal rights around it as soon as you start using it. But, a common law trademark does not offer the same legal protection as a registered trademark and so it is highly recommended that you register your trademark to ensure that you have the greatest legal protection and avoid legal issues down the road.</p>\n<p>Registration of your trademark gives you the exclusive right to use the mark across Canada for 15 years, renewable every 15 years thereafter. If you wish to apply for a trademark in other countries, you must apply to those countries.</p>\n<p>Registration is prima facie, or “at first sight” evidence of your ownership. In a dispute, the registered trademark owner does not have to prove ownership of the trademark as it is initially assumed that the registered trademark is indeed the owner. It is the responsibility of the person or entity challenging your use of the trademark to prove that it is in fact the owner, which is difficult to do if the person or entity is not the registered owner. Use of an unregistered trademark can lead to a lengthy, expensive legal dispute over who has the right to use it.</p>\n<p><strong>Consider this scenario</strong>: For the past five years, you have been operating a highly successful ice cream emporium under the word “Northpole” in your home town of Nova Scotia. You have never heard of another Northpole and you have never bothered with trademark registration. Meanwhile, an Ontario firm has registered the trademark “Northpole” to identify its growing chain of spaghetti diners and home brand tomato sauce. While conducting research for a Maritime expansion plan, the Ontario firm discovers your store and serves you with a lawsuit. Depending on the facts established with the Court, this may result in a court order preventing you from using the word “Northpole.” This development couldn’t come at a worse time, since you were just planning to expand your own business. The situation could have been avoided if you had solidified your clear rights to the trademark through registration.</p>\n<p>Keep in mind also that a registered trademark is a valuable asset for business expansion through licensing franchises. Note as well that if you fail to use the mark for an extended period, your registration may be cancelled.</p>\n<h2>How to file an application to register a trademark</h2>\n<p>To apply for a trademark registration, an application is filed together with the appropriate documentation and fee to the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO). The application undergoes stringent examination to ensure it meets the requirements of the <em>Trademarks Act</em>.&nbsp;</p>\n<h2>Trademark agents</h2>\n<p>Preparing a trademark application and following through on it can be a complex task, particularly if a third party challenges your right to the mark. You may file on your own, but it is highly recommended that you hire a trademark agent to do so on your behalf.</p>\n<p>In order to become a trademark agent, a Canadian resident must have worked in the field of trademarks for at least 24 months, and have passed the qualifying examination. A resident of Canada who is a barrister or solicitor, or a notary in the Province of Quebec, may become a trade- mark agent by passing the qualifying examination or working in the area of trademark law for at least 24 months.</p>\n<p>An experienced, competent trademark agent who is well-briefed can save you problems caused by such obstacles as a poorly-prepared application or inadequate research. If you intend to register marks in other countries, the use of a trademark agent is even more strongly recommended.</p>\n<h3>Related Post:</h3>\n<a href=\"/articles/articles/bid/10796/title-reports-who-needs-them-e-o-insurance\" rel=\" noopener\" style=\"background-color: transparent; font-weight: 300;\">Title Reports</a>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"></span> <img width=\"229\" align=\"right\" style=\"width: 229px; float: right; margin: 0px 8px 16px 12px;\" alt=\"Tarek Elneweihi headshot\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/tarek.jpg\"><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\"><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Tarek Elneweihi</span></strong></span></p>\n<ul>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">Associate</span></li>\n<li>Musician and music producer handling litigation files and entertainment contract</li>\n<li>Called in BC (2013)</li>\n<li><a href=\"mailto:tare@arenaltman.com\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">tarek@arenaltman.com</a></li>\n</ul>\n</ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-style: italic;\"><strong>ALTMAN &amp; COMPANY</strong>&nbsp;| Business and Entertainment Law Suite #202 – 2245 West Broadway Ave., Vancouver BC V6K 2E4&nbsp;| 604-563-1191&nbsp;| </span><a href=\"mailto:info@arenaaltman.com\" style=\"font-style: italic;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">info@arenaaltman.com</a></p></span>\n","postListSummaryFeaturedImage":"","postRssContent":"<h1></h1> \n<p>A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.</p>","postRssSummaryFeaturedImage":"https://61352.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/61352/blog-image-uploads/trademark-shutterstock_2032604168-forweb600.jpg","postSummary":"<h1><img width=\"300\" align=\"left\" style=\"width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;\" alt=\"Trademark logo\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/Trade.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"></h1>\n<p>A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.</p>\n","postSummaryRss":"<h1></h1> \n<p>A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.</p>","postTemplate":"prox_frontrow/templates/blog/blog-post.html","previewImageSrc":null,"previewKey":"QWlowKzQ","previousPostFeaturedImage":"https://61352.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/61352/images/eando/social-network-founder-shutterstock_2066914112-forweb600.jpg","previousPostFeaturedImageAltText":"Social Network Founder: Making a Bio Pic without Permission","previousPostName":"The Delicate Art of Making a Bio Pic without Getting Permission","previousPostSlug":"articles/how-can-you-make-a-film-like-the-social-network-without-getting-permission-from-mark-zuckerberg","processingStatus":"PUBLISHED","propertyForDynamicPageCanonicalUrl":null,"propertyForDynamicPageFeaturedImage":null,"propertyForDynamicPageMetaDescription":null,"propertyForDynamicPageSlug":null,"propertyForDynamicPageTitle":null,"publicAccessRules":[],"publicAccessRulesEnabled":false,"publishDate":1435355100000,"publishDateLocalTime":1435355100000,"publishDateLocalized":{"date":1435355100000,"format":"medium","language":"en_US"},"publishImmediately":false,"publishTimezoneOffset":null,"publishedAt":1666896805116,"publishedByEmail":null,"publishedById":7915797,"publishedByName":null,"publishedUrl":"https://www.frontrowinsurance.com/articles/what-is-a-trade-mark","resolvedDomain":"www.frontrowinsurance.com","resolvedLanguage":null,"rssBody":"<h1><img width=\"300\" align=\"left\" style=\"width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;\" alt=\"Trademark logo\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/Trade.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"></h1>\n<p>A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.</p>\n<!--more--><p>Trademarks come to represent not only actual wares and services, but also the reputation of the producer. As such, they are considered valuable intellectual property. A registered trademark can be protected through legal proceedings from misuse and imitation.</p>\n<p>A trademark can be any special element used to promote and distinguish your business and the services and products you sell. This means that a trademark could be a logo, a name, a slogan, colours, packaging or sounds.</p>\n<p>You can also trademark a description that is not typically associated with a product or service so along as the description is not misleading and original coined terms that don’t have a dictionary definition.</p>\n<p>Business and company names that are too descriptive, using words or practices that are commonly used do not usually qualify and make for weaker marks in any event.</p>\n<p>Examples of well-known trademarks include the CBC logo, Molson’s “I am Canadian” slogan, and the Vancouver Canucks logo and name that appears in the player’s jerseys. As you know, these logos, names and slogans are synonymous with a brand's identity.</p>\n<h2>Who can register a trademark?</h2>\n<p>Companies, individuals, partnerships, trade unions and lawful associations may obtain registration of their marks of identification for wares or services, provided they meet the requirements of the <em>Trademarks Act</em> and <em>Regulations</em>.</p>\n<h2>Should you register a trademark?</h2>\n<p>Just as a marriage can be registered officially or remain common-law, so can a trademark. That means a trademark exists and you have legal rights around it as soon as you start using it. But, a common law trademark does not offer the same legal protection as a registered trademark and so it is highly recommended that you register your trademark to ensure that you have the greatest legal protection and avoid legal issues down the road.</p>\n<p>Registration of your trademark gives you the exclusive right to use the mark across Canada for 15 years, renewable every 15 years thereafter. If you wish to apply for a trademark in other countries, you must apply to those countries.</p>\n<p>Registration is prima facie, or “at first sight” evidence of your ownership. In a dispute, the registered trademark owner does not have to prove ownership of the trademark as it is initially assumed that the registered trademark is indeed the owner. It is the responsibility of the person or entity challenging your use of the trademark to prove that it is in fact the owner, which is difficult to do if the person or entity is not the registered owner. Use of an unregistered trademark can lead to a lengthy, expensive legal dispute over who has the right to use it.</p>\n<p><strong>Consider this scenario</strong>: For the past five years, you have been operating a highly successful ice cream emporium under the word “Northpole” in your home town of Nova Scotia. You have never heard of another Northpole and you have never bothered with trademark registration. Meanwhile, an Ontario firm has registered the trademark “Northpole” to identify its growing chain of spaghetti diners and home brand tomato sauce. While conducting research for a Maritime expansion plan, the Ontario firm discovers your store and serves you with a lawsuit. Depending on the facts established with the Court, this may result in a court order preventing you from using the word “Northpole.” This development couldn’t come at a worse time, since you were just planning to expand your own business. The situation could have been avoided if you had solidified your clear rights to the trademark through registration.</p>\n<p>Keep in mind also that a registered trademark is a valuable asset for business expansion through licensing franchises. Note as well that if you fail to use the mark for an extended period, your registration may be cancelled.</p>\n<h2>How to file an application to register a trademark</h2>\n<p>To apply for a trademark registration, an application is filed together with the appropriate documentation and fee to the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO). The application undergoes stringent examination to ensure it meets the requirements of the <em>Trademarks Act</em>.&nbsp;</p>\n<h2>Trademark agents</h2>\n<p>Preparing a trademark application and following through on it can be a complex task, particularly if a third party challenges your right to the mark. You may file on your own, but it is highly recommended that you hire a trademark agent to do so on your behalf.</p>\n<p>In order to become a trademark agent, a Canadian resident must have worked in the field of trademarks for at least 24 months, and have passed the qualifying examination. A resident of Canada who is a barrister or solicitor, or a notary in the Province of Quebec, may become a trade- mark agent by passing the qualifying examination or working in the area of trademark law for at least 24 months.</p>\n<p>An experienced, competent trademark agent who is well-briefed can save you problems caused by such obstacles as a poorly-prepared application or inadequate research. If you intend to register marks in other countries, the use of a trademark agent is even more strongly recommended.</p>\n<h3>Related Post:</h3>\n<a href=\"/articles/articles/bid/10796/title-reports-who-needs-them-e-o-insurance\" rel=\" noopener\" style=\"background-color: transparent; font-weight: 300;\">Title Reports</a>\n<p>&nbsp;</p>\n<p><span style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\"></span> <img width=\"229\" align=\"right\" style=\"width: 229px; float: right; margin: 0px 8px 16px 12px;\" alt=\"Tarek Elneweihi headshot\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/tarek.jpg\"><span style=\"font-size: 16px;\"><strong><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Tarek Elneweihi</span></strong></span></p>\n<ul>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"background-color: #ffffff;\">Associate</span></li>\n<li>Musician and music producer handling litigation files and entertainment contract</li>\n<li>Called in BC (2013)</li>\n<li><a href=\"mailto:tare@arenaltman.com\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">tarek@arenaltman.com</a></li>\n</ul>\n</ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-style: italic;\"><strong>ALTMAN &amp; COMPANY</strong>&nbsp;| Business and Entertainment Law Suite #202 – 2245 West Broadway Ave., Vancouver BC V6K 2E4&nbsp;| 604-563-1191&nbsp;| </span><a href=\"mailto:info@arenaaltman.com\" style=\"font-style: italic;\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">info@arenaaltman.com</a></p>","rssSummary":"<h1><img width=\"300\" align=\"left\" style=\"width: 300px; float: right; margin: 0px 0px 10px 10px;\" alt=\"Trademark logo\" src=\"http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/61352/Trade.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"></h1>\n<p>A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.</p>\n","rssSummaryFeaturedImage":"https://61352.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/61352/blog-image-uploads/trademark-shutterstock_2032604168-forweb600.jpg","scheduledUpdateDate":0,"screenshotPreviewTakenAt":1709924004961,"screenshotPreviewUrl":"https://cdn1.hubspot.net/hubshotv3/prod/e/0/2018358a-54c6-4c0d-bff8-2e547ecd8918.png","sections":{},"securityState":"NONE","siteId":0,"slug":"articles/what-is-a-trade-mark","stagedFrom":null,"state":"PUBLISHED","stateWhenDeleted":null,"styleOverrideId":null,"subcategory":"normal_blog_post","syncedWithBlogRoot":true,"tagIds":[2961176071,3033106217],"tagList":[{"categoryId":0,"cdnPurgeEmbargoTime":null,"contentIds":[],"cosObjectType":"TAG","created":1434565727000,"deletedAt":0,"description":"","id":2961176071,"label":"Altman & Company","language":"en","name":"Altman & Company","portalId":61352,"slug":"altman-company","translatedFromId":null,"translations":{},"updated":1666899863346},{"categoryId":0,"cdnPurgeEmbargoTime":null,"contentIds":[],"cosObjectType":"TAG","created":1435351581000,"deletedAt":0,"description":"","id":3033106217,"label":"Trademark","language":"en","name":"Trademark","portalId":61352,"slug":"trademark","translatedFromId":null,"translations":{},"updated":1666900191862}],"tagNames":["Altman & Company","Trademark"],"teamPerms":[],"templatePath":"","templatePathForRender":"prox_frontrow/templates/blog/blog-post.html","textToAudioFileId":null,"textToAudioGenerationRequestId":null,"themePath":null,"themeSettingsValues":null,"title":"What is a Trademark? Trademarks Explained","tmsId":null,"topicIds":[2961176071,3033106217],"topicList":[{"categoryId":0,"cdnPurgeEmbargoTime":null,"contentIds":[],"cosObjectType":"TAG","created":1434565727000,"deletedAt":0,"description":"","id":2961176071,"label":"Altman & Company","language":"en","name":"Altman & Company","portalId":61352,"slug":"altman-company","translatedFromId":null,"translations":{},"updated":1666899863346},{"categoryId":0,"cdnPurgeEmbargoTime":null,"contentIds":[],"cosObjectType":"TAG","created":1435351581000,"deletedAt":0,"description":"","id":3033106217,"label":"Trademark","language":"en","name":"Trademark","portalId":61352,"slug":"trademark","translatedFromId":null,"translations":{},"updated":1666900191862}],"topicNames":["Altman & Company","Trademark"],"topics":[2961176071,3033106217],"translatedContent":{},"translatedFromId":null,"translations":{},"tweet":null,"tweetAt":null,"tweetImmediately":false,"unpublishedAt":0,"updated":1666896805121,"updatedById":7915797,"upsizeFeaturedImage":false,"url":"https://www.frontrowinsurance.com/articles/what-is-a-trade-mark","useFeaturedImage":true,"userPerms":[],"views":0,"visibleToAll":null,"widgetContainers":{"Sidebar_Modules":{"deleted_at":1576088190086,"widgets":[{"body":{"overrideable":false,"response_message":"Thanks for Subscribing!","select_blog":"default","title":"Subscribe to Email Updates"},"child_css":{},"css":{},"deleted_at":1576088190086,"id":1489080613497,"label":"Blog Email Subscription","order":0,"type":"blog_subscribe"}]}},"widgetcontainers":{},"widgets":{"google_search":{"body":{"prefill_input_with_pathname":false,"search_button_text":"Search","search_field_label":"Search"},"child_css":{},"css":{},"definition_id":null,"deleted_at":1576088190086,"id":"google_search","label":"google_search","name":"google_search","smart_objects":[],"smart_type":null,"type":"google_search"},"menu_footer_primary":{"body":{},"child_css":{},"css":{},"definition_id":null,"deleted_at":1576088190086,"id":"menu_footer_primary","label":"Menu Footer Primary","name":"menu_footer_primary","smart_objects":[],"smart_type":null,"type":"menu"},"menu_footer_sector_categories":{"body":{},"child_css":{},"css":{},"definition_id":null,"deleted_at":1576088190086,"id":"menu_footer_sector_categories","label":"Menu Footer Sector Categories","name":"menu_footer_sector_categories","smart_objects":[],"smart_type":null,"type":"menu"},"menu_header_all_sectors":{"body":{},"child_css":{},"css":{},"definition_id":null,"deleted_at":1576088190086,"id":"menu_header_all_sectors","label":"Menu Header All Sectors","name":"menu_header_all_sectors","smart_objects":[],"smart_type":null,"type":"menu"},"menu_header_primary":{"body":{},"child_css":{},"css":{},"definition_id":null,"deleted_at":1576088190086,"id":"menu_header_primary","label":"Menu Header Primary","name":"menu_header_primary","smart_objects":[],"smart_type":null,"type":"menu"},"menu_header_sector_categories":{"body":{},"child_css":{},"css":{},"definition_id":null,"deleted_at":1576088190086,"id":"menu_header_sector_categories","label":"Menu Header Sector Categories","name":"menu_header_sector_categories","smart_objects":[],"smart_type":null,"type":"menu"},"module_156398965931111":{"body":{"definition_id":null,"module_id":8696351,"path":"/Marketplace/HubSpot/Team_Member/Team Member","per_widget_wrapper_html":"","smart_objects":null,"smart_type":"NOT_SMART","tag":"module","type":"module","widget_name":"Team Member","wrapping_html":""},"child_css":{},"css":{},"deleted_at":1649872924745,"id":"module_156398965931111","label":"Team Member","module_id":8696351,"name":"module_156398965931111","order":9,"smart_type":null,"styles":{},"type":"module"}}}

What is a Trademark? Trademarks Explained

Trademark stamp: What is a Trademark?

Trademark logo

A trademark is a word, a symbol, a design (or a combination of these features), used to distinguish the wares or services of one person or organization from those of others in the marketplace. In other words, it is legal and business tool that allows you to have a unique identity in the marketplace.

Trademarks come to represent not only actual wares and services, but also the reputation of the producer. As such, they are considered valuable intellectual property. A registered trademark can be protected through legal proceedings from misuse and imitation.

A trademark can be any special element used to promote and distinguish your business and the services and products you sell. This means that a trademark could be a logo, a name, a slogan, colours, packaging or sounds.

You can also trademark a description that is not typically associated with a product or service so along as the description is not misleading and original coined terms that don’t have a dictionary definition.

Business and company names that are too descriptive, using words or practices that are commonly used do not usually qualify and make for weaker marks in any event.

Examples of well-known trademarks include the CBC logo, Molson’s “I am Canadian” slogan, and the Vancouver Canucks logo and name that appears in the player’s jerseys. As you know, these logos, names and slogans are synonymous with a brand's identity.

Who can register a trademark?

Companies, individuals, partnerships, trade unions and lawful associations may obtain registration of their marks of identification for wares or services, provided they meet the requirements of the Trademarks Act and Regulations.

Should you register a trademark?

Just as a marriage can be registered officially or remain common-law, so can a trademark. That means a trademark exists and you have legal rights around it as soon as you start using it. But, a common law trademark does not offer the same legal protection as a registered trademark and so it is highly recommended that you register your trademark to ensure that you have the greatest legal protection and avoid legal issues down the road.

Registration of your trademark gives you the exclusive right to use the mark across Canada for 15 years, renewable every 15 years thereafter. If you wish to apply for a trademark in other countries, you must apply to those countries.

Registration is prima facie, or “at first sight” evidence of your ownership. In a dispute, the registered trademark owner does not have to prove ownership of the trademark as it is initially assumed that the registered trademark is indeed the owner. It is the responsibility of the person or entity challenging your use of the trademark to prove that it is in fact the owner, which is difficult to do if the person or entity is not the registered owner. Use of an unregistered trademark can lead to a lengthy, expensive legal dispute over who has the right to use it.

Consider this scenario: For the past five years, you have been operating a highly successful ice cream emporium under the word “Northpole” in your home town of Nova Scotia. You have never heard of another Northpole and you have never bothered with trademark registration. Meanwhile, an Ontario firm has registered the trademark “Northpole” to identify its growing chain of spaghetti diners and home brand tomato sauce. While conducting research for a Maritime expansion plan, the Ontario firm discovers your store and serves you with a lawsuit. Depending on the facts established with the Court, this may result in a court order preventing you from using the word “Northpole.” This development couldn’t come at a worse time, since you were just planning to expand your own business. The situation could have been avoided if you had solidified your clear rights to the trademark through registration.

Keep in mind also that a registered trademark is a valuable asset for business expansion through licensing franchises. Note as well that if you fail to use the mark for an extended period, your registration may be cancelled.

How to file an application to register a trademark

To apply for a trademark registration, an application is filed together with the appropriate documentation and fee to the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO). The application undergoes stringent examination to ensure it meets the requirements of the Trademarks Act

Trademark agents

Preparing a trademark application and following through on it can be a complex task, particularly if a third party challenges your right to the mark. You may file on your own, but it is highly recommended that you hire a trademark agent to do so on your behalf.

In order to become a trademark agent, a Canadian resident must have worked in the field of trademarks for at least 24 months, and have passed the qualifying examination. A resident of Canada who is a barrister or solicitor, or a notary in the Province of Quebec, may become a trade- mark agent by passing the qualifying examination or working in the area of trademark law for at least 24 months.

An experienced, competent trademark agent who is well-briefed can save you problems caused by such obstacles as a poorly-prepared application or inadequate research. If you intend to register marks in other countries, the use of a trademark agent is even more strongly recommended.

Related Post:

Title Reports

 

Tarek Elneweihi headshotTarek Elneweihi

    • Associate
    • Musician and music producer handling litigation files and entertainment contract
    • Called in BC (2013)
    • tarek@arenaltman.com

ALTMAN & COMPANY | Business and Entertainment Law Suite #202 – 2245 West Broadway Ave., Vancouver BC V6K 2E4 | 604-563-1191 | info@arenaaltman.com

Submit a comment