Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. #Stay_Home_Stay_Safe

Trademark Class

About of Service

Understanding Trademark Classes

  1. Purpose of Trademark Classes:

    • Trademark classes categorize goods and services into different classes based on their nature and purpose.
    • Each class represents a distinct category of goods or services.
  2. International Classification System:

    • Trademark classes are based on the Nice Classification (NCL), which is an international system used to categorize goods and services for the registration of trademarks.
    • The NCL is maintained by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
  3. Number of Classes:

    • There are 45 trademark classes in the Nice Classification.
    • Classes 1 to 34 cover goods (products).
    • Classes 35 to 45 cover services.
  4. Choosing the Right Class:

    • When applying for trademark registration, applicants must select one or more classes that accurately represent the goods or services for which they seek protection.
    • It is essential to choose the correct class(es) to ensure adequate protection and avoid objections during the examination process.
  5. Scope of Protection:

    • The scope of protection of a trademark is limited to the goods or services listed in the application under the selected class(es).
    • Trademark rights do not extend to goods or services outside the specified classes.

Examples of Trademark Classes

  • Goods (Classes 1-34):

    • Class 9: Scientific, nautical, surveying, photographic, cinematographic, optical, weighing, measuring, signaling, checking (supervision), life-saving, and teaching apparatus and instruments; apparatus and instruments for conducting, switching, transforming, accumulating, regulating, or controlling electricity; apparatus for recording, transmission or reproduction of sound or images; magnetic data carriers, recording discs; compact discs, DVDs, and other digital recording media; mechanisms for coin-operated apparatus; cash registers, calculating machines, data processing equipment, computers; computer software; fire-extinguishing apparatus.

    • Class 25: Clothing, footwear, headgear.

    • Class 32: Beers; mineral and aerated waters and other non-alcoholic drinks; fruit drinks and fruit juices; syrups and other preparations for making beverages.

  • Services (Classes 35-45):

    • Class 35: Advertising; business management; business administration; office functions.

    • Class 41: Education; providing of training; entertainment; sporting and cultural activities.

    • Class 45: Legal services; security services for the protection of property and individuals; personal and social services rendered by others to meet the needs of individuals.

Scope of Trademark Class in Registration

  • Specificity: Each class represents a specific category of goods or services, ensuring that trademark rights are clearly defined.

  • Exclusivity: Trademark rights are exclusive to the goods or services specified in the application under the chosen class(es).

  • Protection: Trademark protection applies only to those classes for which the mark is registered. This means that similar marks can coexist in different classes.

Conclusion

Understanding trademark classes is crucial for selecting the correct classes when applying for trademark registration. This ensures that your trademark is adequately protected for the specific goods or services you offer. If you have specific goods or services that need trademark protection, it is advisable to consult with a trademark attorney who can provide guidance on selecting the appropriate classes and navigating the trademark registration process effectively.

Uses and Benefits

  • Purpose of Trademark Classes: Trademark classes categorize goods and services into different classes based on their nature and purpose. Each class represents a distinct category of goods or services.
  • International Classification System: Trademark classes are based on the Nice Classification (NCL), which is an international system used to categorize goods and services for the registration of trademarks. The NCL is updated periodically by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).
  • Number of Classes: There are 45 trademark classes in the Nice Classification. Classes 1 to 34 cover goods (products). Classes 35 to 45 cover services.
  • Choosing the Right Class: Trademark applicants must select one or more classes that accurately represent the goods or services for which they seek protection.
  • Scope of Protection: The scope of protection of a trademark is limited to the goods or services listed in the application under the selected class(es).

Additional Disclosure

  1. Description of Goods/Services:

    • Clear and specific description of the goods or services associated with the trademark.
    • Each class of goods or services should be clearly defined according to the Nice Classification system, which categorizes goods and services into 45 classes.
  2. Classification Details:

    • Indication of the specific class or classes under which the trademark is registered.
    • Each class corresponds to a distinct category of goods or services, and the trademark application should specify all relevant classes.
  3. Distinctiveness and Use:

    • Explanation of the trademark's distinctiveness within the specified class or classes.
    • Evidence of current or intended use of the trademark in commerce for the specified goods or services.
  4. Goods/Services Specifications:

    • Detailed specifications outlining the features, characteristics, and functions of the goods or services covered by the trademark registration.
    • For example, for goods, this might include materials used, dimensions, functionality, etc. For services, this might include specific offerings, processes, methods, etc.
  5. Illustrative Examples:

    • Provide illustrative examples or samples of the goods or services covered by the trademark registration, if applicable.
    • This helps to clarify the nature and scope of the trademark's use in connection with the specified class or classes.
  6. Distinct Class Requirements:

    • Any specific requirements or regulations applicable to the goods or services in the specified class, including regulatory compliance or industry standards.
  7. Certification or Labeling:

    • If the trademark registration pertains to certification marks or collective marks within a specific class, additional disclosures may include details of certification standards or collective membership requirements.

Documents & Detail Required

  1. Trademark Application Form:

    • Complete trademark application form with all required details.
    • Include applicant details, trademark information, and selected classes.
  2. Details of the Applicant:

    • Full name and address of the applicant (individual or entity).
    • Contact information (phone number, email address).
  3. Details of the Trademark:

    • Representation of the trademark (word mark, logo, or combination thereof).
    • Description of the trademark, including any non-Latin characters.
    • Trademark registration number (if already registered in another jurisdiction).
  4. Goods and Services Description:

    • Clear and accurate description of the goods/services for which the trademark will be used.
    • The description should correspond exactly to the goods/services in the selected class(es).
  5. Selection of Trademark Classes:

    • Choose the appropriate trademark classes (according to the Nice Classification) that represent the goods or services associated with your trademark.
    • Ensure that you select all classes that accurately represent your goods/services to ensure comprehensive protection.
  6. Power of Attorney (if applicable):

    • If the application is filed through a representative (e.g., trademark attorney), a power of attorney authorizing them to act on behalf of the applicant.
  7. Priority Claim (if applicable):

    • If claiming priority based on an earlier-filed application in another country under the Paris Convention, include details of the priority application.

Additional Details Required

  1. Classification Details:

    • For each selected class, provide a clear description of the goods/services according to the Nice Classification.
    • Ensure the description is specific and not overly broad.
  2. Translations/Transliterations:

    • If the trademark includes non-Latin characters, provide translations or transliterations into Latin characters.
  3. Color Claim (if applicable):

    • If the trademark is claimed in a specific color or color combination, include a claim specifying the colors and their placement.
  4. Specimens of Use (if applicable):

    • Depending on the jurisdiction, you may need to provide specimens showing the trademark in use for certain goods/services.

FAQ'S

What are trademark classes?

Trademark classes are categories into which goods and services are classified for the purpose of trademark registration. The classification system is based on the Nice Classification (NCL), which is an international system used to categorize goods and services.

How many trademark classes are there?

There are 45 trademark classes in the Nice Classification: Classes 1 to 34: Goods (Products) Classes 35 to 45: Services

Why are trademark classes important?

Trademark classes are important because they define the scope of protection of your trademark. You must specify the goods or services for which you are seeking protection under the appropriate classes.

How do I choose the right trademark class(es) for my application?

Identify your goods/services: List out all the goods or services that you currently offer or intend to offer under the trademark. Consult the Nice Classification: Review the Nice Classification to identify the classes that correspond to your goods/services. Accuracy is key: Be specific and accurate in describing your goods/services to avoid objections during the examination process.

Can I apply for trademark registration in multiple classes?

Yes, you can apply for trademark registration in multiple classes if your trademark is used or intended to be used across different categories of goods/services. Each class will require a separate application and fee.