How Much Does It Cost To Register a Trademark, Including Legal Fees?

 Registering a trademark is a crucial step for businesses looking to protect their brand identity and prevent unauthorized use of their name, logo, or slogan. The cost of Trademark Registration In Pakistan varies depending on several factors, including government fees, legal assistance, and international protection requirements. In this article, we will break down the costs associated with trademark registration, including legal fees, to help businesses make informed financial decisions.

1. Government Filing Fees

The official filing fee for trademark registration depends on the jurisdiction and the number of classes under which the trademark is registered. In most countries, trademarks are categorized under different classes based on the Nice Classification system, which groups goods and services into 45 distinct categories.

Trademark Registration Costs in Different Jurisdictions:

  • United States (USPTO):

    • TEAS Plus: $250 per class

    • TEAS Standard: $350 per class

  • United Kingdom (UKIPO):

    • £170 for the first class

    • £50 for each additional class

  • European Union (EUIPO):

    • €850 for the first class

    • €50 for the second class

    • €150 for the third class and beyond

  • Pakistan (IPO-Pakistan):

    • PKR 10,000–15,000 per class for a standard application

    • Additional fees apply for expedited processing

  • International (WIPO Madrid Protocol):

    • Basic fee of CHF 653 (Swiss Francs)

    • Additional charges per country and per class

2. Legal and Attorney Fees

Hiring a trademark attorney can simplify the registration process and improve the chances of approval. While not mandatory, professional legal assistance is recommended, especially for complex or international registrations.

  • Basic Trademark Search: $100–$500 (or higher for comprehensive searches)

  • Attorney Consultation Fee: $200–$500 per hour

  • Trademark Filing Assistance: $500–$2,000 per application

  • Responding to Office Actions (Objections): $300–$1,500 per response

  • Opposition Proceedings (If Challenged): $2,000–$5,000+ in legal fees

Legal fees vary based on the law firm’s reputation, the complexity of the case, and additional services such as portfolio management.

Trademark Registration In Pakistan


3. Trademark Search Costs

Before filing a trademark application, conducting a trademark search helps identify potential conflicts and avoids rejection. There are different levels of searches available:

  • Basic Online Search: Free (via government databases like USPTO, EUIPO, and IPO-Pakistan)

  • Comprehensive Trademark Search: $300–$1,000 (includes databases of registered and pending trademarks, domain names, and common law uses)

4. Trademark Renewal Fees

Trademark Registration In Lahore require periodic renewals to maintain protection. The renewal timeline and fees vary by country:

  • United States: $425 per class (due every 10 years)

  • United Kingdom: £200 for the first class, £50 for each additional class (due every 10 years)

  • European Union: €850 for the first class (due every 10 years)

  • Pakistan: PKR 15,000–20,000 per class (due every 10 years)

Failure to renew on time may result in additional late fees or cancellation of the trademark.

5. Additional Costs (Enforcement & Opposition Fees)

  • Trademark Opposition Costs: If someone opposes a trademark application, legal fees for defending the application range from $3,000–$10,000+ depending on jurisdiction.

  • Trademark Infringement Litigation: Lawsuits can cost between $10,000–$100,000+, including court and attorney fees.

  • Cease and Desist Letters: Sending an official warning letter costs $500–$2,500, depending on legal assistance.

6. International Trademark Registration Costs

For businesses expanding globally, international trademark registration through the Madrid Protocol can be cost-effective.

  • WIPO Filing Fee: CHF 653 (Swiss Francs) base fee

  • Additional Fees: Varies by country, averaging CHF 100–300 per designated country

  • Legal Fees for International Applications: $1,500–$5,000+

International registrations can be more expensive but provide broader protection across multiple jurisdictions.

Trademark Registration In Pakistan


Conclusion

The total cost of registering a trademark depends on factors like the number of classes, jurisdiction, and legal support. A basic trademark registration can range from $250 to $1,000 per class for government fees alone. Including legal fees, searches, and potential enforcement, total costs can reach $2,000–$10,000+ depending on complexity and location.

For businesses serious about brand protection, investing in proper legal assistance and international registrations can prevent costly disputes and ensure the long-term security of their intellectual property. Proper budgeting and professional guidance from Hamza & Hamza Law Associates can streamline the process and maximize trademark protection.

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