The road from idea to commercial product or service includes the key step of protecting the intellectual property that are inherent to innovation. IP professionals assist clients in developing strategies and growing businesses by protecting their IP rights in Canada and elsewhere. Whether you are considering a go-to-market plan for a new product, taking your brand global, or acquiring another business, IP professionals can help – particularly if you consult with them early on in the process. Click here to find an agent in your area. Click here to download a brochure with more information.
What can a trademark agent do for me?
Filing an application to register your trademark involves numerous judgment calls and legal determinations that call for an agent’s experience and training. A trademark agent will:
- Identify what bundle of IP rights are included in your branding that are protectable under both trademark and copyright legislation;
- Conduct the required searches to evaluate and assess whether the mark of interest is available to use and register in Canada;
- Submit a strong initial application that can help avoid unnecessary costs and delays; and
- Help you develop strategies to maximize the value of your brand asset and ensure that the benefit of registering your trademark is realized.
Trademark registration procedures are complex. It is important to clear your rights before spending time, effort and costs on an extensive marketing campaign featuring the mark. A trademark agent will:
- Prevent you from making mistakes during the registration process that may not reveal themselves for some time down the road;
- Help you develop international trademark rights by leveraging their network of trusted local counsel or agents in your key markets; and
- Help you to get the broadest protection possible.
Once the application has been filed, a trademark agent can:
- Help you respond to enquiries and objections raised by the Trademarks Branch or other parties; and
- Advise you on the best strategies to protect your rights after registration. This can range from marketing materials to packaging, and from licensing to online sales.
What can a patent agent do for me?
Filing and prosecuting a patent application is very complex. A patent agent can:
- Conduct a search to determine whether your invention is patentable and evaluate the scope of protection which may be obtained for your invention, both in Canada and elsewhere;
- Ensure that your invention is properly described and claimed when the application is filed to reduce the risk that it may be refused by the Patent Branch during future examination;
- Help develop strategies to maximize the value of your invention; and
- Help avoid costly mistakes, allowing you to develop your invention in a prosperous environment.
Just as you seek the advice of an accountant for complicated tax matters or a lawyer to draft a commercial agreement, a registered patent agent can:
- Maximize the opportunities provided by your invention;
- Help discern whether you are infringing patents owned by others; and
- Help you sell, license or use your patent as an asset to negotiate funding.
Click here to find an agent in your area.