Agenda:

An overview of important changes:

• Recommendations for Canadian and Global Brand Protection and Enforcement
• Recommended steps for brand owners to take before the changes come into force on June 17, 2019
• Immediate issues to consider – how they may affect you
• Changes to fees
• Elimination of use requirement
• Implementing Nice Classification
• Joining the Madrid Protocol

Agenda:

• Key changes – Overview of changes
• Impact on transitional cases – How your current applications/patents are affected
• Revisiting your patent strategy – What are new pitfalls? What will be more forgiving?

Agenda:

• General portfolio strategies – cost management tips; protection for umbrella brands; strategic renewals; portfolio reviews, including assessing vulnerability to cancellation for non-use
• CIPO updates - timing of examination in Canada; notification of third party rights; hearings at CIPO
• MADRID International filings – strategy for marks designating Canada; courtesy notices and timing
• Clearance searches and monitoring the Canadian marketplace
• Proving use of trademarks in a virtual economy
• Unique Canadian issues:
• Specificity of goods/services
• Inherent distinctiveness objections
• Official marks
• Using applications/registration for commercial brand registry enforcement
• Domain name protection and infringement
• Customs/Border Protection Program for IP Rights Holders
• Q&A Session