Trademark and IP • TRADE MARK

Respond to TM Objection

Filing a formal reply to an examination report raised by the Trade Marks Registry, addressing objections (e.g., similarity to existing marks, descriptiveness) to move the application forward.

Who needs it

Applicants whose trademark application has received an official objection and must respond within the prescribed time to avoid abandonment.

Authority / law

Trade Marks Registry, Trade Marks Act 1999

Documents generally required

Examination report/application number; Form TM-48 (if filed via attorney); evidence of use (invoices, advertisements, affidavits of use); a reply/counter-statement addressing each ground of objection.

FAQs

What is the deadline to respond to a trademark objection?

Generally within 30 days of the examination report being issued.

What happens if no reply is filed?

The trademark application is treated as abandoned.