Trademark Objection

Respond to Examination Objections and Move Your Application Forward

After a trademark application is filed, the Trade Marks Registry examines it and may raise objections in an examination report. Objections commonly arise on absolute grounds — where a mark is considered descriptive, non-distinctive, or generic — or on relative grounds, where it is similar to an earlier mark already on the register. An objection does not mean the end of the application; a well-reasoned reply filed within the deadline can overcome it.

We analyse the examination report and draft a strong, evidence-backed reply to keep your application moving. Objections are a normal step in trademark registration, and if a hearing is fixed, we provide hearing representation. If the mark is later challenged after advertisement, we also handle opposition. For the bigger picture, see our trademark overview.

Our Trademark Objection Services

Examination Report Analysis

Studying the report to understand each ground of objection.

Objection Reply Drafting

Preparing a clear, persuasive reply addressing every point.

Evidence & Submissions

Compiling evidence of use and distinctiveness where relevant.

Filing the Reply

Filing the response with the Registry within the time limit.

Hearing Representation

Representing you at a hearing if the objection persists.

Status Tracking

Monitoring the application after the reply is filed.

Our Approach

Analysing the examination report in detail
Identifying the absolute or relative grounds raised
Drafting a strong, well-supported reply
Filing the reply within the prescribed time
Attending a hearing if one is scheduled

Benefits of a Strong Objection Reply

Keeps your trademark application alive
Directly addresses the grounds of objection
Improves the chance of acceptance
Backed by relevant evidence and arguments
Filed correctly and within the deadline
Moves the application towards registration

Why Choose Us?

Experienced drafting of objection replies
Clear understanding of absolute and relative grounds
Timely filing within the deadline
Hearing support where required
Seamless link with your trademark registration

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a trademark objection?

A trademark objection is a concern raised by the Trade Marks Registry in the examination report after an application is filed. It must be addressed through a written reply before the application can proceed towards registration.

Why was my trademark objected?

Objections usually arise because the mark is considered descriptive or non-distinctive on absolute grounds, or because it is identical or similar to an earlier mark on the register on relative grounds. Other procedural issues can also lead to objections.

What is the time limit to reply to a trademark objection?

A reply to the examination report generally must be filed within the period prescribed by the rules, commonly thirty days from receipt of the report. Filing within time is important to avoid the application being treated as abandoned.

What happens after I reply to the objection?

After the reply is filed, the Registry reviews it and may accept the application for advertisement, raise further queries, or schedule a hearing. If accepted, the mark proceeds to publication in the Trademark Journal.

What if the objection is not resolved?

If the objection is not resolved through the reply, the Registry may fix a hearing where arguments are presented. If it is still not overcome, the application may be refused, subject to available remedies such as review or appeal.