According to the FAZ Institute, Anne-Kathrin Renz is among the top female lawyers in the field of intellectual property law for 2026. This award recognizes our many years of experience dealing with legal issues of the digital age – from trademark registrations and IT contracts to the protection of creative works in media and on online platforms.

The complete list of award-winning law firms can be found on the website

Why the FAZ award is so important

The annual FAZ study is based on an independent survey conducted in collaboration with renowned analysis partners. outstanding law firms to identify in their core areas – based on objective criteria such as:

• demonstrable competence,
• practical experience,
• Client satisfaction,
• as well as sustainable success in handling mandates.

For our firm, this recognition is an important signal: The connection between legal precision and technological understanding is crucial today to effectively support clients in the digital economy.

What does intellectual property protection mean for us?

"Intellectual property rights" refers to all legal measures companies use to protect their brands, designs, software, and content. Especially in the digital economy, these intellectual property rights are often the foundation of business success.

Our firm represents clients in all areas of law, particularly in:

• Trademark law: Registration, defense and licensing of national and international trademarks.
• IT law: Drafting and reviewing software, cloud and development contracts, legally compliant online presences.
• E-commerce and competition law: Defense against warnings, legally compliant terms and conditions, protection against unfair behavior.
• Copyright: Protection of creative content, usage rights, social media content, file sharing.

Our service

We have been advising companies in the technology, agency, retail, and startup sectors for many years. We combine legal rigor with technical expertise.

Our clients benefit from:

• tailor-made advice at eye level,
• fast response time in the case of short deadlines and urgent procedures,
• clear communication and transparent costs,
• and a consistently digital way of working.

The demands on law firms in the digital environment are constantly increasing. IT and trademark law, in particular, require legal expertise that combines technical understanding with business acumen.

Especially at a time when AI, data, and online commerce are constantly creating new challenges, we want to provide companies with legal support – with competence, clarity, and a modern way of thinking.

We thank all clients for their trust – and see the award as an incentive to continue to be one of the leading law firms in trademark and IT law in the future.

Termination of the German-Swiss Agreement of 1892 – What trademark owners should pay attention to

With effect from May 31, 2022, Germany has terminated the “Agreement between Switzerland and Germany on Reciprocal Protection of Patents, Designs and Trademarks” of 1892.
This bilateral agreement, in force for over 100 years, made it easier for owners of intellectual property rights to exploit their rights in the other contracting state. A key provision concerned the use of trademarks to maintain their legal standing: actions in Switzerland were recognized for German trademarks, and vice versa. This option, which was often helpful, is now no longer available. Depending on the current usage situation, it may therefore be advisable to re-register trademarks – as long as this is legally possible.

Otherwise, the familiar rules apply: Anyone wishing to enjoy trademark protection in Germany and Switzerland must in future submit trademark applications separately in both countries or, alternatively, protect a national trademark through an international registration.

The abolition of the German-Swiss Agreement has far-reaching consequences in trademark law, particularly for trademark owners.
A key advantage of the agreement was that the legally valid use of a trademark was also recognized in the other country. This made it easier, in particular, to protect the trademark against cancellation applications due to lack of use.

Following the termination of the agreement, trademark owners must now ensure that their trademark is actually used in Germany and Switzerland to maintain protection. Acts of use in the other country are no longer automatically considered to be valid. This means that a trademark that has only been used in one of the two countries can no longer automatically be defended against cancellation applications in both states.

I can provide comprehensive advice on the consequences of the abolition of the German-Swiss agreement and support you in effectively protecting your trademark rights in both countries. Contact me to continue to reliably protect your brand.

The abolition of the German-Swiss agreement applies ex nunc, meaning only for the future. There is no retroactive cancellation.
Although some details are still unclear, everything indicates that trademark owners can continue to rely on acts of use in the territory of the other country over the last five years – but only for actions until 31 May 2022.

From the May 31, 2027 The termination of the agreement will be decisive for all trademarks. Acts of use in the other country will then no longer count within the five-year period and can therefore no longer be used to maintain the legality of a trademark.

Trademark owners who have previously used their German or Swiss trademarks exclusively in the other country must now adapt their usage practices.
With the abolition of the German-Swiss agreement, acts of use in the other country can no longer be used to maintain rights.

It is advisable to carefully review your trademark portfolio and, where appropriate, consider filing new applications for the trademarks in question – to the extent permitted by the rules on repeated applications.
This will ensure long-term trademark protection in both countries and minimize potential risks associated with the new regulations.

Optimize your brand strategy with my expert support! As a trademark attorney, I will support you in efficiently implementing your trademark application in Switzerland and adapting your trademark portfolio in a timely manner to ensure protection in both Switzerland and Germany.

Contact me to professionally secure your trademark rights and to optimally design your brand strategy.

Trademark application and registration by an experienced trademark lawyer

Have you developed a new product or founded a startup? Then you should consider registering a trademark early on. Trademark protection is a crucial step for the long-term success of your company and protects your corporate identity.

A trademark is a legally protected mark that distinguishes your goods or services from those of other providers—the so-called origin function of the trademark. With a registered trademark, you increase recognition, position yourself clearly in the market, and lay the foundation for a strong, positive brand image.

Why registering a trademark is worthwhile: By registering your trademark with the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA) or the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), you secure exclusive rights of use. This creates the foundation for brand loyalty, trademark protection, and defenses against product piracy or trademark infringement.

The registration of a trademark with the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA) is not automatic. Every trademark application is carefully examined and may be rejected if so-called absolute grounds for refusal exist.

These include, among others:

• Lack of distinctive character of the mark
• Descriptive information that must be kept free
• Misleading brand components
• Included national emblems or official inspection marks
• Violations of morality or public order

Important: The German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA) does not check whether identical or similar-sounding trademarks already exist. Without a prior trademark search, you risk costly opposition proceedings or warnings for trademark infringement.

As an experienced trademark attorney, I provide comprehensive support in legally compliant trademark registration – including trademark research, checking for grounds for refusal, and protecting your trademark against third parties.

Avoid costly mistakes – have your trademark professionally reviewed before registering. Contact us now for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Even after your trademark has been successfully registered, ongoing protection is crucial. Conflicts with younger trademarks or third-party trademarks can arise at any time. Professional trademark monitoring helps identify potential conflicts early and take action promptly.

I will take care of ongoing brand monitoring for you – reliably and at a fair annual flat rate.

Furthermore, actively maintaining your brand is essential. Due to the mandatory use requirement under trademark law, you otherwise risk your trademark being classified as purely descriptive and thus becoming subject to cancellation. Prevent descriptive use by third parties and protect the long-term economic value of your brand.

Secure your trademark rights sustainably – have your brand professionally monitored and maintained. Request a consultation now!

Even after your trademark has been successfully registered, ongoing protection is crucial. Conflicts with younger trademarks or third-party trademarks can arise at any time. Professional trademark monitoring helps identify potential conflicts early and take action promptly.

I will take care of ongoing brand monitoring for you – reliably and at a fair annual flat rate.

Furthermore, actively maintaining your trademark is essential. Due to the mandatory use requirement under trademark law, you otherwise risk your trademark being classified as purely descriptive and thus becoming subject to cancellation. Prevent descriptive use by third parties and protect the long-term economic value of your trademark.

Secure your trademark rights sustainably – have your brand professionally monitored and maintained. Request a consultation now!

Would you like to register and legally protect a trademark? As a specialized trademark attorney, I will guide you through every step – from initial strategic consultation to successful registration and beyond. With in-depth expertise in intellectual property law, I will ensure that your brand is protected for the long term and positioned with legal certainty.

My trademark services at a glance:

• Individual advice on brand strategy: I will help you select a suitable brand name and develop a customized registration strategy with you.
• Checking the protectability of your trademark: I will clarify whether your mark has the necessary distinctive character and whether there are any grounds for refusal.
• Trademark searches at the DPMA, EUIPO and WIPO: To avoid conflicts with existing trademarks, I conduct comprehensive identity and similarity searches.
• Creation of a tailor-made list of goods and services according to the Nice Classification.
• Formulation and filing of the trademark application: I will handle all correspondence with the trademark office and accompany you until you receive the trademark certificate.
• Objection procedure: I will represent you legally if third parties file an opposition against your trademark – or if you wish to take legal action against a younger trademark.
• Enforce trademark protection: I will help you defend your trademark both in and out of court – for example, through cease-and-desist letters, contractual penalties, injunctions, or lawsuits.

Your advantage: legal clarity, financial security, and professional brand management. Get expert support with your trademark registration – nationally, Europe-wide, or internationally.

Trademark registration in Great Britain – Professional trademark protection for your company

Registering a trademark in the UK can be done not only nationally with the help of our UK colleagues at the United Kingdom Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO), but also through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). We will discuss with you which of these two options is best for your company in a detailed preliminary consultation.

To register an IR trademark with protection in Great Britain:

A British trademark application is filed through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva. A so-called basic trademark, previously registered as a national trademark, for example, in Germany, is forwarded to WIPO and registered internationally (an IR trademark). The IR trademark is then forwarded to the UKIPO, which verifies compliance with national trademark protection requirements. If the IR trademark is accepted by the UKIPO, trademark protection is extended to Great Britain.
This procedure is possible if both the country of origin of the basic trademark and the United Kingdom are members of the Madrid Agreement (MMA) or the Protocol to the Madrid Agreement (PMMA). This applies to German trademarks, European Union trademarks, and many other countries.
An application for an International Registration (IR) with protection in Great Britain must first be filed with the national trademark office of the country of origin (e.g., the DPMA for German trademarks or the EUIPO for European Union trademarks). After examination, the application is forwarded to WIPO, which re-examines it and then forwards it to the UKIPO, where registration takes place after the final examination.

Let us professionally guide you through the entire registration process for your British trademark. Contact me for comprehensive advice on trademark registration in the UK and protect your brand now!

Before registering a trademark in the UK, it is crucial to check your chosen trademark name for so-called "absolute grounds for refusal." The UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO) will only register your trademark if no such grounds exist.
An absolute ground for refusal could arise, for example, if the trademark lacks the necessary distinctive character or cannot be registered due to its purely descriptive nature. Likewise, a risk of deception or a need to keep the trademark available may prevent trademark protection.

Why a collision search is essential:
A thorough trademark search is essential before registering to minimize the risk of conflict with existing trademarks. If your trademark is registered despite a potential conflict with an older trademark, the owner of the older trademark may file an opposition, file a cancellation action, or issue a cease-and-desist letter to your company.
Cost savings through collision research
The costs of a legal dispute, opposition proceedings, or cancellation action are usually considerably higher than the costs of a professional conflict search. Through early and comprehensive research, potential conflicts can be identified and avoided early on.

Avoid costly trademark disputes in the UK by getting professional support with your trademark conflict search. Contact me now for a thorough and cost-effective trademark search that will protect you before registering your trademark in the UK!

Filing a British trademark as an International Registration (IR) involves various fees, which vary depending on the number of Nice classes and the relevant trademark office. Here is an overview of the most important fees:

Trademark registration fees:

• Forwarding fees of the trademark offices (DE + EU):

  • DPMA fees: 180.00 EUR for forwarding after registration of the basic trademark, excluding the registration costs for the basic trademark.

  • EUIPO fees: EUR 300.00 for forwarding after registration of the basic trademark, excluding the costs for registration of the basic trademark.

• WIPO fees:

  • CHF 653.00 for a word mark or a black and white figurative mark.

  • CHF 903.00 for a coloured figurative mark or word/figurative mark (basic fee of the World Intellectual Property Organisation).

• UKIPO fees:

  • CHF 202.00 for the first Nice Class and CHF 56.00 for each additional class from the second Nice Class onwards (UK Trademark Office fees).

What are Nice classes?
When registering your trademark in the UK, you must specify the goods or services for which your trademark is to be protected. These can be classified into one of the 45 Nice classes. The amount of fees at WIPO and UKIPO depends on how many of these classes you select for your trademark.

Renewal of the trademark after 10 years:
After 10 years, you must renew your trademark protection. The following fees apply:

• WIPO: In addition to the basic fee of CHF 653, there is a fee of CHF 224.00 for the first Nice class and CHF 56.00 for each additional class from the second onwards.

• UKIPO (direct): If the mark is renewed nationally at the UKIPO, the fees are GBP 200.00 for the first Nice Class and GBP 50.00 for each additional class from the second onwards.

As a trademark attorney, I provide comprehensive advice on registration fees and renewal options, and support you in structuring your trademark protection in the UK efficiently and with legal certainty. Contact me for detailed advice on trademark registration in the UK!

In the UK, a five-year grace period applies after trademark registration. This means that a trademark must be actually used no later than five years after registration to retain legal trademark protection.

What happens if the trademark is not used?
If the registered trademark is not used within five years, a third party may file a cancellation request. In this case, the trademark will be canceled unless the owner can prove actual use.

Why is the grace period relevant?
The grace period ensures that trademark protection is only granted for trademarks that are actually actively used in commerce. It prevents trademarks from being registered solely for strategic reasons to make it more difficult for others to use similar trademarks. To ensure long-term trademark protection, it is crucial to actively use the trademark.

As a trademark attorney, I will assist you with your trademark registration in the UK and ensure that your trademark is registered with the UKIPO in a legally sound and efficient manner. I will guide you through the entire process – from trademark research and registration to ongoing monitoring of trademark protection. Trust in my expertise to ensure the best possible protection for your trademark in the UK.

Contact me now for comprehensive advice on trademark registration in Great Britain!

Register a European Union trademark – Effective trademark protection throughout the EU

A European Union trademark application is filed with the European Trademark Office (EUIPO). Here are the steps you should follow for a successful application:

• trademark search
  Before applying for an EU trademark, it is crucial to ensure that no identical or similar trademarks are already registered in the European Trademark Register. A thorough trademark search will help you avoid potential conflicts and increase your chances of a successful application.

• Submit registration
  You can conveniently register your EU trademark online via the EUIPO platform. The electronic filing process is simple and efficient, and the EUIPO offers a user-friendly interface for a straightforward filing process.

• Examination by the EUIPO
  After filing, the European Trademark Office will check whether your trademark meets the legal requirements, such as distinctiveness and compliance with formal requirements.

• publication
  After successful examination, your trademark will be published in the European Trademark Register. This publication gives third parties the opportunity to file oppositions against the application if they believe their earlier trademark rights are being infringed.

• registration
  If no objections are raised within the opposition period, your trademark will be registered and you will receive legal trademark protection throughout the European Union.

Conclusion
Registering a European Union trademark can be complex. With my support as a trademark attorney, I will ensure that your trademark is registered professionally and efficiently. I will guide you through the entire process and help you avoid potential pitfalls.

Creating a list of goods and services for trademark registration is often challenging, both for laypeople and for attorneys who are not specialized in trademark law. It is particularly important to strike the right balance to prevent future problems.

The correct representation of your activity
The list must not only accurately reflect the applicant's current activities but also consider potential future activities. The trademark applicant has a grace period of five years after filing the application, during which they are not required to use their trademark. However, trademark applications cannot be amended or supplemented after filing. If an important class or product is omitted, a new trademark application must be filed, or trademark protection will not be guaranteed in that area.

The risks of too broad a selection
It's important to be careful when selecting the goods and services in the list. Including too many classes increases the risk that third parties with prior rights will file an opposition to the trademark application. It's also important to note that after the five-year grace period, third parties may file a cancellation request if the trademark has not been used at all or has not been used in full.

Our support with trademark registration
My support as a trademark attorney will help you create a comprehensive and accurate list of goods and services that protects your rights in the long term and minimizes potential risks. I will ensure that your application covers all relevant goods and services while complying with the legal requirements.

Before applying for an EU trademark, it is crucial to conduct a thorough trademark search. This checks whether there are any prior trademark rights that could conflict with the trademark application. The EUIPO (European Union Intellectual Property Office) does not conduct this check ex officio, so it is the applicant's responsibility to identify potential conflicts early on.

Which signs can conflict with an EU trademark?
Not only EU trademarks can be opposed, but also national trademarks from the 28 EU Member States, international trademarks protected in the EU, company logos, company names, and domains. Similar trademarks or signs that could create a likelihood of confusion also pose a risk.

Why a comprehensive trademark search is important
Earlier trademarks or signs may oppose your EU trademark application if there is a likelihood of confusion. An opposition can be filed with the EUIPO within one month of the publication of the trademark application. If the opposition is successful, the trademark will not be entered in the trademark register, and the application will be rejected by the EUIPO.

Protect your brand in time
A thorough trademark search before filing can avoid costly errors and delays. My support as a trademark attorney will help you conduct a comprehensive trademark search to identify potential conflicts with older trademarks early on and securely file your EU trademark application.

Contact me now for a professional trademark search and ensure that your EU trademark is successfully registered without any legal obstacles!

Before a European Union trademark is registered, it must possess the necessary distinctive character and, in particular, must not be descriptive of the goods and services for which registration is sought. The EUIPO examines ex officio whether these requirements are met. If the EUIPO considers the trademark to be descriptive, the trademark application will be refused, and the application will not even be published.

Why review by a lawyer is important
The decision as to whether a trademark is descriptive is often unclear. For this reason, it is advisable to consult a lawyer specializing in trademark law before applying for an EU trademark. In some cases, a descriptive word mark can still be protected by converting it into a word-figurative mark.

Contact me today for legal advice on trademark registration and protect your trademark in advance against possible obstacles to registration!

The costs for registering a European Union trademark depend on the number of classes of goods and services you choose for trademark protection. Here is an overview of EUIPO fees:

• Basic fee: 850 € for first class

• Additional fee: 50 € for the second class and 150 € for each additional class

These fees cover trademark protection for a period of 10 years. After this period, trademark renewal fees can be paid to continue protecting your trademark.

The more classes you choose, the higher the cost. However, it's important to select the right classes to ensure your trademark is protected in the relevant areas.

Contact me for detailed advice on the costs and registration process for your European Union trademark!

Trademark registration in Switzerland – your professional trademark protection for sustainable success

The registration of a trademark in Switzerland is done through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) in Geneva. First, an international registration of a basic trademark is applied for under the Madrid Agreement (MMA) or the Protocol to the Madrid Agreement (PMMA).

This process extends the trademark protection of an already registered trademark to Switzerland. The basic trademark is registered with the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IGE), ultimately giving you a Swiss trademark.

Requirements for international registration

Registration through WIPO is possible if both the country of origin in which the basic trademark is registered or at least pending and Switzerland are members of the MMA or PMMA. This applies to German trademarks and European Union trademarks, as both Germany and the European Union are members of the PMMA. Many other countries are also members of the agreement.

An overview of the relevant member states of the MMA and PMMA can be found in my overview of international trademark applications.

A Swiss trademark application must be filed with the national trademark office of the country of origin of the underlying trademark. This means:

• For a German basic trademark, the application is submitted to the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA).

• If a European Union trademark is used as a basic trademark, the application is made to the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO).

After the initial examination, the national trademark office forwards the application to WIPO, which examines it again. Upon successful completion of the examination, the application is forwarded to the Swiss Trademark Office (IGE). There, the final examination and decision on trademark registration in Switzerland are made.

As a trademark attorney, I will guide you through the entire registration process and ensure that your trademark is registered efficiently and correctly in the Swiss trademark register. Contact me today for comprehensive advice on trademark registration in Switzerland!

The successful registration of a trademark with the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property (IGE) requires that no absolute grounds for refusal exist. Such grounds may exist if the trademark lacks the necessary distinctive character or is not eligible for protection due to its descriptive nature for the goods and services in question. A risk of deception may also lead to the trademark not being registered.

Why a collision search is necessary

To reduce the risk of a conflict with an older trademark, it's important to conduct a thorough trademark search before filing a trademark application. A collision search will show you whether similar or identical trademarks already exist that could be confused with your new trademark.

Otherwise, the owner of an earlier trademark that may cause confusion could file an opposition against your trademark application in Switzerland or even seek cancellation.

Save costs through collision research

The costs of opposition proceedings or cancellation actions usually significantly exceed the costs of a professional conflict search. By conducting an early and thorough search, you can avoid these potential risks and ensure that your trademark application is processed smoothly and legally.

There are various fees for trademark registration in Switzerland, depending on the number of Nice classes and the type of trademark. Here is an overview of the most important costs:

Fees for registering a Swiss trademark:

• DPMA fees: 180.00 EUR for a German basic stamp or 300.00 EUR for an EU basic stamp.

• WIPO fees: 653.00 CHF for a black/white mark or 903.00 CHF for a color mark (basic fee of the World Intellectual Property Organization, WIPO).

• IGE fees: 100.00 CHF for the first three Nice classes and 100.00 CHF for each additional Nice class from the fourth class onwards (Fees of the Swiss Federal Institute of Intellectual Property, IPI).

What is a Nice Class?
When applying for a trademark, you must specify the goods and services for which your trademark is to be protected. These can be classified into one of the 45 Nice classes. The fees charged by WIPO and the Swiss Trademark Office (IGE) are based on the number of Nice classes selected for the application. This applies regardless of whether the trademark is a word mark, figurative mark, 3D mark, or color mark.

After ten years, trademark protection can be renewed in Switzerland. The renewal fees are:

• 100.00 CHF for the first three Nice classes

• 100.00 CHF for each additional Nizza class from the fourth grade onwards
  In addition, the WIPO basic fee is charged.

In Switzerland, a grace period of five years applies after trademark registration. This means that your trademark must be actively used no later than five years after registration to receive legal protection.

If the trademark is not used correctly within this period, a third party may file a cancellation application, which could lead to the loss of your trademark rights in Switzerland.

The grace period protects against trademarks registered solely for the purpose of hindering other trademark applications. It is therefore crucial that you actively use your trademark within the five-year period—whether by selling products or providing services under the brand name.

Would you like to register your trademark in Switzerland? I'm here to provide you with professional support during this important step. I offer transparent and fair fixed fees for an initial consultation, which will be credited towards any subsequent work.

In my consultation I will discuss with you:

• The chances of success of your trademark application

• The estimated costs for the entire registration process

My goal is to register your trademark in a legally secure and efficient manner and to facilitate your path to trademark protection in Switzerland.

The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) – A key role in international trademark law

Respond correctly to demands from SoundGuardian GmbH and Amann Rechtsanwälte regarding music usage

• Keep Calm: Avoid paying too quickly or communicating directly with the other party.

• Note deadlines: Check the letter carefully and make sure you meet the specified deadlines.

• No direct contact: It is not advisable to contact SoundGuardian GmbH or Amann Rechtsanwälte directly in order to avoid possible disadvantages.

• Document the facts: Collect relevant evidence, such as screenshots, upload dates, the reach of the videos, and the length of the music used.

• Seek legal assistance: Have your claims reviewed by specialized IT and media law attorneys to ensure that your rights are protected.

To prevent unpleasant letters like those from SoundGuardian GmbH, companies and influencers should:

• Check if you have the required license: Make sure you have the necessary licenses for using music in videos.

• Find out about the licensing conditions of social media platforms: Regularly check the licensing requirements of the various platforms on which you publish content.

• Create clear internal regulations: Establish clear guidelines for music use in videos and ensure that all employees are informed accordingly.

Trademark registration – Protecting your brand starts here

Registering a trademark is a crucial step for the long-term success and legal protection of your brand. It secures you exclusive rights to use it and protects your company from unwanted competition. A registered trademark not only promotes the development of a positive brand image but also reduces the risk of confusion with other trademarks and prevents unauthorized use.

Registering a trademark is the first step in legally protecting your brand. The process involves several important steps, which I'll explain in more detail below:

• Filing the trademark application: Submit your trademark application to the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA) or another competent authority.

• Payment of registration fees: After the application, the necessary fees for trademark registration must be paid.

• Examination by the DPMA: The trademark office checks whether your application meets the requirements for registration and whether there are any possible objections.

• Registration in the trademark register: If the examination is successful, your trademark will be officially registered and receive legal protection.

• Wait for the objection period: After registration, third parties have three months to file an opposition to the trademark application.

• Trademark monitoring after registration: To protect your brand permanently, I recommend regular brand monitoring to detect possible infringements at an early stage.

• Renewal of trademark protection: Trademark protection is valid for a period of ten years and can be renewed thereafter to secure your brand in the long term.

As an experienced trademark law firm, I will support you in legally protecting your brand from the outset, allowing you to concentrate fully on your business.

The registration fee for a trademark is €300 for up to three classes. Each additional class costs €100. If you file the application electronically, the basic fee is reduced to €290.

Choosing the right classes is crucial not only from a cost perspective. There is a mandatory use requirement, meaning you must actually use the trademark in the selected classes to maintain trademark protection. Furthermore, selecting multiple classes will increase the examination and processing time.

The following fees apply for trademark registration with the DPMA:

• Basic fee (for 3 classes): 300 € (for electronic registration: 290 €)

• Additional classes: 100 € per class

Would you like to register your trademark securely and protect it legally? Our trademark law firm will guide you every step of the way – from registration to monitoring your trademark protection. Contact us now and register your trademark legally!

After you submit your trademark application to the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA), it will undergo a thorough examination. However, the DPMA only checks whether there are any absolute grounds for refusal that could prevent the trademark from being registered. The examination is based on the following criteria:

• Is the trademark protectable?
  The trademark must be distinctive and must not contain purely descriptive or generic terms.

• Were the formal registration criteria met?
  The DPMA checks whether the application complies with all legal requirements and whether all necessary information has been submitted correctly.

• Is there a risk of misleading or deceptive consumers?
  The trademark must not be misleading or mislead the consumer. The German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA) investigates whether the trademark could in any way lead to consumer deception.

• Does the trademark violate any laws or morality?
  The trademark must be in accordance with applicable law and common decency.

If the DPMA encounters deficiencies during the examination, such as a lack of distinctive character or an obvious risk of misleading, the entrepreneur will be informed of the objections. If the entrepreneur fails to respond or correct the deficiencies, the trademark application will be rejected.

To ensure your trademark registration is successful, it is crucial to submit them correctly and on time. Our trademark law firm will guide you through the entire process and help you avoid mistakes. Start your legally secure trademark registration now – with the support of an experienced trademark attorney!

If there are no objections or if the entrepreneur successfully resolves them, the trademark is registered in the German Patent and Trademark Register (DPMA). With this registration, the trademark receives legal protection, and the entrepreneur acquires the exclusive right to use the trademark.

In addition to registration, the new trademark will be published in the German Patent and Trademark Office's public trademark gazette to inform the public about existing trademark rights. This publication gives other companies or individuals the opportunity to file an opposition to the trademark if they believe their own rights are infringed by the trademark.

Our trademark law firm supports you in registering your trademark and ensures that all necessary steps are carried out correctly to secure your trademark protection in the long term.

After the trademark has been published in the DPMA's Trademark Gazette, owners of older trademarks or competing trademarks have the opportunity to file an opposition against the registered trademark. The DPMA does not examine whether existing intellectual property rights are infringed, which is why oppositions are based on so-called relative grounds for refusal, which can arise in the following cases:

• There are already older, identical brands.

• The risk of confusion with older trademarks is too high.

Objection period of 3 months
After the trademark is published, third parties have three months to file an opposition to the application. If the opposition is successful, the trademark will be cancelled and the trademark application will be declared invalid. It is important to note that trademark registration fees are non-refundable in this case.

Trademark protection for 10 years
After successful registration, trademark protection lasts for ten years and can then be renewed for a fee to maintain trademark protection in the long term.

Make trademark registration legally secure: Let me professionally guide you through the entire registration process and avoid potential disputes. Our trademark law firm will support you in successfully and permanently protecting your brand.

After a successful trademark application and the expiration of the three-month opposition period without objections, trademark protection is valid for ten years, beginning on the date of receipt of the application. However, protection does not end with registration – it is crucial to continuously monitor your trademark even after registration.

Why permanent brand research is important
It's essential to regularly check trademark registers to ensure no new trademarks have been registered that could infringe your rights. If you encounter a potential trademark infringement, you can file an opposition within the statutory time limits.

Helpful tools for brand monitoring
Specialized tools help you quickly and effectively detect infringements of your trademark rights – especially online. These tools enable regular and automated monitoring, allowing you to respond to potential conflicts in a timely manner.

Our trademark law firm supports you in trademark monitoring and ensures that your rights remain protected long-term. I offer customized solutions for preventative trademark research and help you respond quickly to trademark infringements. Request advice on trademark monitoring now and protect your brand permanently!

Registering a trademark is the first step toward legally protecting your brand and setting yourself apart from the competition. It not only protects your corporate identity but also strengthens your customers' trust. As a specialized trademark attorney, I will guide you from the initial concept to successful trademark registration and beyond.

As an experienced trademark lawyer, I offer you comprehensive support and advice in registering your trademark:

• Brand strategy advice: I will help you choose the right brand name and determine the right brand form (word mark, figurative mark, combined mark).

• Examination of trademark protectability: I ensure that your trademark meets the legal registration requirements and that there are no obstacles to protection.

• trademark searchBefore registering, we check whether similar or identical trademarks have already been registered in order to avoid trademark conflicts.

• Preparation of the list of goods and services: I will support you in selecting the relevant classes from the Nice Classification for your trademark.

• Submission and monitoring of the application: I will professionally submit your trademark application to the DPMA, EUIPO or WIPO and accompany you through the entire registration process.

• Objection procedure: If a third party objects to your trademark application, I will represent your interests and support you in securing trademark protection.

Rely on the expertise of our trademark law firm. I will provide you with personalized advice, guide you through the entire registration process, and ensure that your trademark is securely and successfully protected. Contact me today for a free consultation on trademark registration and receive legally sound and professional support!

The certification mark – legal protection for test marks and quality seals

Since January 14, 2019, certification marks can be registered with the German Patent and Trademark Office for the first time in Germany. This special form of trademark protection was created specifically for organizations that issue neutral seals of approval, test marks, or quality standards.

In contrast to the traditional individual trademark, which primarily serves to identify the origin of products or services, the certification mark focuses on securing objective quality characteristics. It guarantees that the labeled goods or services meet certain standards – regardless of who manufactured or offered them.

The certification mark is designed to certify certain characteristics of goods or services through a neutral authority. For effective registration and legally compliant use of this type of trademark, the following requirements must be met:

Independence of the trademark owner
The trademark owner must not be legally or economically affiliated with the providers of the certified products or services. This means that they may not be the manufacturer, distributor, or service provider of these goods or services. Only through this strict neutrality can the necessary objectivity and credibility of the trademark be ensured.

Regular checks and monitoring
The characteristics associated with the trademark must be continually monitored. Use of the trademark is only permitted if the defined requirements are actually met. The responsibility for monitoring and ensuring compliance with these standards lies with the trademark owner, who must implement appropriate testing procedures.

Transparency towards the consumer
Both the guaranteed characteristics and the underlying verification and control mechanisms must be clearly defined and publicly accessible. This information is documented in a binding trademark statute, which is submitted to the Trademark Office and published in the Trademark Register. This creates a high degree of traceability and trust for consumers.

Are you thinking about registering a certification mark or would you like to have the protectability of your quality seal examined?
My trademark law firm provides expert support – from initial legal consultation to drafting the trademark regulations and registration with the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA) or the European Union Patent and Trademark Office (EUIPO). Secure support now for legally secure trademark protection with certification functions.

The trademark regulations are the central set of rules for a certification mark and form the basis for its legally secure use. They stipulate in binding terms which properties are certified and under which conditions the trademark may be used. According to Section 106d Paragraph 2 of the Trademark Act, certain content must be regulated to ensure transparency and legal clarity.

Overview of mandatory contents of the trademark statute:

• Guaranteed product features: The statutes must describe in concrete terms which features, standards or quality criteria are guaranteed by the brand.

• Regulations on trademark use: It must be clearly defined who is allowed to use the trademark and what conditions must be met.

• Testing and control procedures: The statutes must set out in detail how compliance with the guaranteed characteristics will be verified – including the type, scope and frequency of the checks.

Structure and comprehensibility of the statutes
The trademark regulations must be designed in such a way that third parties – in particular users, testing institutions and consumers – can clearly identify the guaranteed content and its scope.
To explain technical details or test procedures, reference may be made to external, publicly accessible sources such as specialist publications or websites.

Since the introduction of the certification mark in 2019, the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA) has already received more than 100 applications. Among the successfully registered trademarks are the state quality seal “Green Button”, which stands for socially and ecologically responsible clothing, as well as the word mark “active office certificate” (DE 3020190090361) for ergonomic office furniture.

Typical challenges when registering
Despite the successful examples, practice shows that many applications fail due to formal or substantive hurdles:

• Wrong brand category selected: In several cases, the certification mark was mistakenly applied for instead of an individual or collective mark. Since changing the trademark form during the proceedings is not possible, this can lead to complete rejection.

• Lack of distinctiveness: If the guaranteeing character of the mark is not clearly recognizable, the Office will refuse registration due to lack of distinctive character.

• Inadequate trademark regulations: Often the application fails due to unclearly formulated or incomplete trademark regulations that do not meet the legal requirements.

Conclusion:
Anyone wishing to register a certification mark should carefully review the specific requirements in advance. My trademark law firm will reliably assist you – from selecting the appropriate trademark form and drafting legally compliant trademark regulations to successful registration with the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA) or the European Union Patent and Trademark Office (EUIPO).

Registering a certification mark is subject to specific legal requirements, so careful preparation is essential. To ensure your trademark is registered smoothly, please consider the following points:

1. Clarify the actual function of your brand
Before you start the registration process, check carefully whether your trademark meets the requirements of a certification mark.
Important: The trademark owner may not manufacture the goods in question or offer the associated services themselves. The trademark serves solely to certify certain properties or standards – not for self-promotion.

2. Pay attention to the guaranteeing character
For successful registration, the trademark must be clearly recognizable as a certification mark. This can be supported by, among other things, the following elements:

• Word components, such as “tested”, “certified”, “test seal” or “quality mark”

• Visual design, e.g. a seal motif or a check mark symbol with verification character
  The overall impression of the trademark must convey an objective guarantee – this is crucial for registrability.

3. Fulfill the formal requirements of the trademark statute
The trademark regulations are the heart of your certification mark. They must clearly and comprehensibly regulate

• which properties or quality standards are guaranteed,

• how these are checked,

• which requirements users must meet.

Only a complete and precisely drafted statute meets the legal requirements and leads to successful registration.

Professional support ensures success
My trademark law firm will guide you through every step – from legal classification and the drafting of the trademark regulations to registration with the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA) or the European Union Patent and Trademark Office (EUIPO). Leverage my expertise for a legally compliant brand presence with certification functions.