Smart & Biggar uncovers and maximizes intellectual property and technology assets for our clients.
Today’s fast-paced innovation economy demands a higher level of expertise and attention to detail when it comes to IP strategy and protection. With over 125 lawyers, patent agents and trademark agents collaborating across five Canadian offices, Smart & Biggar is trusted by the world’s leading innovators to find value in their IP rights.
As market leaders in IP, Smart & Biggar’s team is on the pulse when it comes to the latest developments and the wider industry changes that impact our clients. To stay informed, visit smartbiggar.ca/insights, including access to our RxIP Update (smartbiggar.ca/insights/rx-ip-updates), a monthly digest of the latest decisions and law surrounding the life sciences and pharmaceutical industries.
During a recent meeting, the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) revealed plans for a significant reduction in the first examination of Canadian trademark applications not using the pre-approved list of goods...
During a recent meeting, the Canadian Intellectual Property
Office (CIPO) revealed plans for a significant reduction in the
first examination of Canadian trademark applications not using the
pre-approved list of goods and services from 54 months to 24 months
by March 2025. This announcement follows CIPO's recent hiring
of 160 new examiners.
Currently, applications using the pre-approved list are examined
in just over 17 months, while Madrid applications are examined in
about 18 months.
This improvement will undoubtedly be welcomed by trademark
owners and practitioners. Quality of examination may be impacted
but should improve significantly in the year to come as the new
examiners gain experience.
In the meantime, we invite you to consult our article for current options to expedite
the examination of trademark applications in Canada.
The preceding is intended as a timely update on Canadian
intellectual property and technology law. The content is
informational only and does not constitute legal or professional
advice. To obtain such advice, please communicate with our offices
directly.