Service 04
Trademark Opposition Handling
Once your trademark is accepted, it is published in the Trade Marks Journal so that the public can object to it. Anyone who believes your mark conflicts with theirs can file a notice of opposition within four months of publication.
Opposition is a formal legal proceeding with strict timelines. Equally, if you spot a newly published mark that copies yours, filing an opposition is the most effective way to stop it before it is registered.
What’s included
- Review of the notice of opposition and the opponent’s grounds
- Drafting and filing the counter-statement within the two-month deadline
- Preparing evidence by affidavit, with supporting documents
- Representation at the opposition hearing
- Filing oppositions against conflicting marks on your behalf
- Watching the Trade Marks Journal for copycat marks (on request)
How it works
- 1
Notice received
The opposition notice is reviewed and the grounds are assessed.
- 2
Counter-statement
Your response is filed within two months, or the application is abandoned.
- 3
Evidence
Both sides file evidence supporting their case.
- 4
Hearing & decision
Arguments are heard and the Registrar decides the opposition.
Frequently asked questions
How long does someone have to oppose my trademark?
A notice of opposition can be filed within four months of the trademark being published in the Trade Marks Journal.
What happens if I don’t file a counter-statement?
If the counter-statement is not filed within two months of receiving the notice of opposition, the application is treated as abandoned.
Can I oppose someone else’s trademark?
Yes. If a published mark is identical or similar to yours and could cause confusion, you can file an opposition within the four-month window.
Get in Touch
Get help with opposition handling
Share your brand name and what you do. You’ll get a reply on the next steps for your case.