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5. Examination

Note: This is the print view with all the Document pages on one page. The paginated version is available here, if you prefer that.

5.1 Mark

An application for merger of separate trade mark applications or registrations will not be accepted where the marks are not identical11. This includes the situation where the different trade mark applications or registrations would constitute a series but are not identical.



Footnote

11 Regulation 54(2)(e) of the Trade Marks Regulations 2003



5.2 Filing and convention dates

An application for merger of separate trade mark applications or registrations will not be accepted where the marks have a different filing date or convention priority date12.

An application for merger will not be accepted where one application or registration claims a multiple or partial convention priority and the other application or registration does not.



Footnote

12 Regulation 54(2)(b) of the Trade Marks Regulations 2003.



5.3 Status

An application for merger of separate trade mark applications or registrations will not be accepted where the marks do not have the same status13. For example, where the marks are under examination then all the marks must be at examination status, namely, status 50. Where the marks are registered all the subject marks must at the same registered status, namely status 100.



Footnote

13 Regulation 54(2)(c) of the Trade Marks Regulations 2003.



5.4 Name of applicant or owner

An application for merger of separate trade mark applications or registrations will not be accepted where the name of the applicant for the merger is not exactly the same as the respective trade mark applicant or trade mark registration owner.14

 


Footnote

14 Regulation 54(2)(d) of the Trade Marks Regulations 2003.




5.5 Classification

An application for merger of separate trade mark applications or registrations will not be accepted where the marks are not classified according to the same edition of the Nice Classification or Schedule to the Trade Marks Regulations 1954.15



Footnote

15 Regulation 55(a) of the Trade Marks Regulation 2003.



Last updated 16 November 2009