Service 03
Trademark Objection Reply
After filing, the Registry examines your application and may issue an examination report raising objections. This is common and does not mean your trademark has been refused. Many marks are accepted after a well-reasoned reply.
Objections usually fall into two groups: absolute grounds, for example that the mark is descriptive or lacks distinctiveness, and relative grounds, where the Registry has found similar earlier marks. The reply must address each objection with legal arguments and, where useful, evidence of use.
What’s included
- Review of the examination report and the cited conflicting marks
- Legal strategy for each objection raised
- Drafting and filing the reply within the deadline
- Supporting affidavit and evidence of use where it strengthens the case
- Representation at the show-cause hearing if one is scheduled
- Advice on next steps if the Registry maintains its objection
How it works
- 1
Send the report
Share the examination report as soon as you receive it.
- 2
Strategy
Each objection is analysed and the strongest arguments are identified.
- 3
Reply filed
A detailed reply, with evidence if needed, is filed on time.
- 4
Hearing
If the Registry schedules a hearing, your case is argued before the officer.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I have to reply to an examination report?
The reply generally has to be filed within 30 days of receiving the examination report. If no reply is filed, the application can be treated as abandoned, so act quickly.
What does ‘objected’ status mean?
It means the examiner has raised one or more objections in the examination report. The application is still alive and moves forward once a reply is filed.
What happens after the reply?
The Registry either accepts the application and sends it for publication in the Trade Marks Journal, or schedules a hearing to discuss the objections.
Get in Touch
Get help with objection reply
Share your brand name and what you do. You’ll get a reply on the next steps for your case.