A brand that is not registered is difficult to defend. Assistance is provided in securing intellectual property rights in Pakistan and in enforcing them against infringers once secured.
What this covers
- Trademark search, registration and renewal
- Trademark opposition and rectification proceedings
- Copyright registration for creative and software works
- Patent applications
- Registration of industrial designs
- Assignment and licensing agreements
- Infringement and passing-off notices
- Enforcement actions and injunctions against counterfeiting
Trademarks
Trademark work begins with a search to establish whether the proposed mark is available in the relevant class, since an application filed over an existing mark simply invites opposition. The application is then filed with the Trade Marks Registry of IPO-Pakistan and pursued through examination, advertisement in the Trade Marks Journal, and any opposition, to registration and eventual renewal.
Copyright, patents and designs
Copyright registration is arranged for literary, artistic, musical and software works; patent applications for inventions; and registration of industrial designs for the shape and appearance of products. Assignment and licensing agreements are drafted where the rights are to be transferred or exploited commercially.
Enforcement
Where a mark or work is being infringed, cease-and-desist notices are issued and, where the infringement continues, proceedings for injunction and damages are pursued before the appropriate court.
Questions clients ask about intellectual property
How do I register a trademark in Pakistan?
An application is filed with the Trade Marks Registry of IPO-Pakistan in the class appropriate to your goods or services, ordinarily after a search to confirm the mark is available. The application is examined, advertised in the Trade Marks Journal, and proceeds to registration if no successful opposition is filed.
How long does trademark registration take?
Timelines depend on the Registry's workload and on whether objections or oppositions are raised. A straightforward, unopposed application moves considerably faster than one that attracts an examination objection or a third-party opposition.
Someone is using my brand name. What can I do?
A cease-and-desist notice is ordinarily the first step. If the infringement continues, proceedings can be brought for an injunction restraining further use and for damages, and — where your mark is registered — enforcement is materially stronger.
This page is general information about the work handled by the chamber and is not legal advice on your particular matter. Every case turns on its own facts — please get in touch for advice on yours.