Latest Patents and trademarks Questions & Answers
Another company is using our name
Another company has started up using our name. We are an online shop and have been in business since 2003. We let a domain name slide, a company has bought it, and is selling similar products under the same name. We have had three calls from their unhappy customers thinking it was us. Please help!
Buying a company name before starting up
I want to buy my company name so that noone else can take it before I start trading. If I buy it and make it dormant, what are my responsibilities (like annual returns etc)?
How do I protect my idea?
I have developed and researched a new idea that I think has the potential to be commercially successful. How do I protect my idea?
How to patent and distribute a new product
I have devised a form of ‘cladding’ which can turn an old-looking house into a new-looking Tudor-style home. Can you suggest anyone who could help me get it to market?
Copyright issues: Using quotes
I want to print short quotes from feature films on my products as decoration. I have read conflicting information as to whether this breeches the screenplay's copyright, as a short quote is treated differently from the whole text. Also I'd like to look in to using images from films in the same way but don't know where to start in terms of seeking/buying permission - can you help?
Advice on taking over an existing business
Can I use my deceased cousin’s business name and logo for myself? I checked to see if it was registered and it is not. I know that my dear departed cousin would like his name to be carried on and kept in the family as it always has been.
Using a former company's name
A local limited company closed down last year. It was the name of the town and the trade, e.g. Kent Flowers. I would now like to use this name as a sole trader. Would this be allowed?
Trade marks
How do I protect a trade mark?
How do I approach someone who I believe has infringed my copyright?
How do I approach someone who I believe has infringed my copyright?
Patenting an invention
What are the criteria for patenting an idea?
Is IP registration vital for an invention?
I have a new invention but limited funds. Is it essential that I cover my intellectual property rights as I have heard that, in practice, it gives you little protection against infringements?
How can I secure a patent?
I think I have an idea for a product that is not available to the market but know little about how to take it forward. I presume a patent is the first step, but need some advice.
