Trademark Objection Reply.
After filing, the Trade Marks Registry may issue an examination report objecting on absolute grounds under section 9, such as a descriptive or non-distinctive mark, or on relative grounds under section 11, such as conflict with earlier marks. A reasoned reply must be filed within one month. We analyse the objection, file the reply with evidence and represent you at the show-cause hearing if one is listed.
Typically 5–10 working days to prepare and file the reply within the one-month window. The Registry then reviews the reply and lists any hearing on its own schedule.
A partner — a chartered accountant or company secretary — from the first call to sign-off.
Based on your situation, and fixed in writing before any work starts.
Is this for you?
- Applicants whose status shows 'Objected' or who have received an examination report
- Brands facing citations of similar earlier marks
- Applicants with descriptive marks that need proof of acquired distinctiveness
What you receive at the end.
- 01Objection analysis note
- 02Filed reply to the examination report
- 03Affidavit of use with evidence, where required
- 04Representation at the show-cause hearing
Trademark Objection Reply, step by step.
Typically 5–10 working days to prepare and file the reply within the one-month window. The Registry then reviews the reply and lists any hearing on its own schedule.
- 1
Report analysis
We review each objection and the cited marks, and assess the strength of arguments based on differences, prior use or coexistence.
- 2
Reply strategy
We decide whether to argue, narrow the specification through an amendment request, or support the reply with evidence of use.
- 3
Draft and file
We draft the reply, with an affidavit and evidence where useful, and file it online within the deadline.
- 4
Show-cause hearing
If the Registry is not satisfied, a show-cause hearing is scheduled. We appear for you, usually in the Registry's virtual hearing room.
- 5
Acceptance or refusal
If accepted, the mark proceeds to publication in the Trade Marks Journal. If refused, we advise on review or appeal options.
What we need from you.
Don't have everything yet? We send a short checklist after the first call and work with what you have.
- Examination report and application number
- Evidence of use: invoices, advertisements, website and social media records, sales figures
- Details of the cited marks you may already know about
- Any consent or coexistence letters from owners of the cited marks
- Signed power of attorney (Form TM-48), if we were not the filing agent
The fee depends on your situation. After a short call, the partner who will do the work tells you what's involved and gives you a fixed fee in writing — before any work begins.
- Government fees and statutory charges are billed at actuals.
- When you pay — upfront, in stages or on completion — is agreed in writing with the fee.
Questions about Trademark Objection Reply.
Ready to discuss Trademark Objection Reply?
30-minute confidential call — no proposal, no commitment. A partner will write back within one business day.