[#16] I Thought…

I thought… “I can change my registered trademark however I like it”

Generally, only minor amendments are allowed.

A registered trademark should be used in the same manner as shown in the Certificate of Trademark Registration. The Certificate gives no protection to a trademark that is very different from that shown in the Certificate. So if businessmen or companies want to change or make amendments to their registered trademarks, they can do so, but whether the changed trademark is still protected by the initial registration has to be decided on a case-by-case basis. In practice, if there is a significant change in the mark it is strongly advisable to apply for a new registration, so as to be sure that the changed mark is also protected by registration. Otherwise the changed mark receives no protection at all.

So check whether your mark as currently used is the same as that shown in your Certificate of Trademark Registration. If there are changes to the marks, e.g., addition/deletion of features, change in type fonts, stylizing of images, etc., you should consult your trademark attorney to decide whether a fresh application is required.

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