Trade Mark Opposition & Appeals

Enforcing trade mark rights against others is critically important and a key part of managing your trade mark portfolio.

We have an excellent reputation for prosecuting oppositions and cancellation actions on behalf of clients at the UKIPO, as well as at EUIPO for clients with EUTMs covering the EU. Of course, should the boot be on the other foot, we also have great experience in successfully defending our clients’ applications against oppositions brought by others, and so helping the mark to become registered. We represent clients at oral hearings and appeals at the UKIPO and have also been involved in appeal procedures before both English Courts and the Courts of the European Union, in particular the General Court.

Our trade mark attorneys and lawyers understand brands and the key role that they play in your business. Defending them is of paramount importance. We appreciate that they can be challenging and complex but we know how to help you navigate the situation and will provide imaginative and pragmatic legal options that achieve the right outcome for your business, at the right cost.

Working with our Trade Mark experts

We have invaluable local expertise

When it comes to oppositions, local expertise is essential. Trade mark oppositions and cancellation actions can be complicated matters, both procedurally and in terms of legal arguments and evidence. This is particularly so for UK proceedings, which often have tight deadlines and strict procedural requirements. We're experienced at this. We've been handing oppositions for many years and with very successful outcomes.

We are exerts in successful negotiation of amicable settlements

We also have a good track record at successfully negotiating amicable settlements with adverse parties. This can be either as an alternative to fighting out an opposition or cancellation, or in tandem with such proceedings to maximise leverage on the other side. We can then formalise settlement terms in expertly prepared coexistence agreements.

We take a commercial approach - so clarity of strategy is a primary driver

We understand the bigger picture and the commercial importance of your trade mark to your business and so this strategic approach is a primary driver in the way we work with you.