The use of a trademark

Conflicts and coexistence with third parties’ rights

Toward conflicting trademarks, in opposition proceedings.

In the event of conflicts with domain names with the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) procedures

By setting up and monitoring watch services to detect new applications by competitors and be able to react early enough.

With negotiations of coexistence agreements.

Maintenance of exclusive rights

A trademark must be used correctly in order to preserve its distinctiveness and reduce the risk for the trademark to become generic or to be abandoned. Anticipation is the key with, for example, clear guidelines on the use of the mark. It is also necessary to be able to actively collect and file evidence of use, depending on the circumstances and countries.

Formalities

A trademark is valid for ten years from the date of its filing and renewal is necessary to avoid the lapsing of rights.

Amendments, limitations, changes in names, assignments, licenses, pledges, etc. need to be recorded in the trademark registers.