A trademark is a distinctive sign that identifies certain goods or services produced or provided by an individual or a company. Its origin dates back to ancient times when craftsmen reproduced their signatures, or “marks”, on their artistic works or products of a functional or practical nature. Over the years, these marks have evolved into today’s system of trademark registration and protection. The system helps consumers to identify and purchase a product or service based on whether its specific characteristics and quality – as indicated by its unique trademark – meet their needs.

A trademark may be designated by the following symbols:

  • ™ (for an unregistered trademark, that is, a mark used to promote or brand goods)
  • ℠ (for an unregistered service mark, that is, a mark used to promote or brand services)
  • ® (for a registered trademark).

Trademarks may be one or a combination of words, letters and numerals. They may consist of drawings, symbols or three dimensional signs, such as the shape and packaging of goods. In some countries, non-traditional marks may be registered for distinguishing features such as holograms, motion, colour and non-visible signs (sound, smell or taste).

The term trademark is also used informally to refer to any distinguishing attribute by which an individual is readily identified, such as the well-known characteristics of celebrities. When a trademark is used in relation to services rather than products, it is usually referred as a service mark.

Trademarks provide their owners with the legal right to prevent others from using a confusingly similar mark. However, they cannot be used to stop competitors from making the same goods or from selling the same goods or services under a clearly different mark.

MARAMIYA IP provides a full range of trademark services such as;

  • Trademark search
  • Trademark Watch services
  • Trademark Registration
  • Trademark License Agreement
  • Recordal of assignments
  • Trademark enforcement
  • Prosecution and opposition
  • Investigation & detection of counterfeit goods

We, MARAMIYA take a genuine interest in our clients, understand their objectives, and meet or exceed their expectations. We dedicate ourselves to work hard, provide superior legal services on a timely, effective, and efficient basis, and maintain the highest standards of professional integrity.