Given the free flow of goods, services, and information between Canada and its largest trading partner, the United States, brand owners and their counsel may assume that trademarks practice in Canada is much the same as it is in the United States. However, this is not the case. When it comes to defending a brand, and enforcing rights, in Canada, brand owners and their trademark counsel should be aware of certain peculiarities of Canadian trademarks practice, from applications to registrations and enforcement. In this webinar, partners Christian Bolduc and Graham Hood discuss key differences between Canadian and US trademarks practice that often come as a big surprise to brand owners looking to protect their trademarks in Canada.
This webinar is part of a series on practical tips and strategies for global brand protection in Canada.(1) For the complete list of webinars, see "Canadian Trademarks: Protection Strategies for Global Brands".
The following cases are relevant to the "licensing" of official marks in Canada:
- Canada Post Corporation v The Post Office (T-226-99); and
- Magnotta Winery Corporation v Vintners Quality Alliance (T-481-99).
For further information on this topic please contact Christian Bolduc or Graham Hood at Smart & Biggar by telephone (+1 613 232 2486) or email ([email protected] or [email protected]). The Smart & Biggar website can be accessed at www.smartbiggar.ca.
Endnotes
(1) For the first webinar in the series, see "Fast-track your trademarks in Canada: expediting Canadian trademarks examination".