What we do
We are specialists in trade mark law. Focusing on securing registration, portfolio management, enforcement and dispute resolution, in the UK and internationally.
Our approach is straightforward: providing a responsive, commercially focused service. With proactive and strategic guidance to make the most of some of your most valuable business assets, your brands. All wrapped up with clear pricing and no surprise bills.
Why work with us
We are not simply an outside supplier. Instead, we work hard to get to know your business and the sector you work in so that we can provide advice that reflects your position, your needs and your desired outcomes.
You don’t need to chase us. We work proactively on our matters and give updates along the way so that you can be sure things are moving along.
Our advice is delivered clearly and with no legal waffle. You can share our advice/reports to the internal business without having to interpret what we’re saying.
We’re not here to just say yes. We will take into account all the factors that you tell us are important and when you need it we’ll give you advice, a risk assessment and an actual opinion/guidance.
Phone calls and “can I just run this past you” queries, are provided without charge. If it tips into advice, where our expertise (and all the protections that come with being a regulated and insured firm) kick in, we’ll let you know.
Hourly Rates
We believe that hourly fees are the cause of many points of friction when clients engage legal providers. In our view, the hourly rate system rewards slower working practices, and makes it difficult for our clients to manage a budget. We don’t think this system encourages the best working practices between our clients and our firm and this is why we have chosen not to operate with hourly rates and time-recording. Instead, we focus on delivering value-based outcomes and charging fairly for the expertise involved in each task/stage, regardless of how many hours it takes to deliver it.
Who we are
Clare
Managing Director and UK Chartered Trade Mark Attorney
Clare is weirdly geeky about trade marks. She loves all things branding and legal – this is genuinely her dream job! She brings over 20 years of experience gained in-house and in private practice. She’s especially good at finding creative solutions to resolving disputes, and proactively reviewing and auditing trade mark portfolios. Outside of work, and in between juggling the social lives and sporting commitments of her two daughters, she loves reading, going to the theatre and concerts, and going on holiday!
Chris
Operations Director
Chris has a background in data management and analysis, which as it turns out is pretty useful in a trade mark firm! He runs the trade mark portfolio database with military precision and loves a spreadsheet. Outside of work he is a very dedicated Nottingham Forest supporter and season ticket holder, he also enjoys following Formula One.
Harriet
Admin Assistant
Harriet is our super organised admin assistant, helping to keep the wheels turning and making sure that everything is running smoothly.
Amanda
Paralegal
Amanda is our freelance paralegal. She is an absolute whizz with all aspects of trade mark support.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a trade mark registration if I’m already trading?
Ideally, yes. Using a name, even for a long time, does not automatically mean you have protection or rights in that name.
Can I file a trade mark application myself?
Absolutely. You don’t have to use us to help you. In the same way you don’t need an accountant, a cleaner, a personal trainer etc. We’re here to help you, and can often offer extra advice on things you might not have thought of.
I’ve had a cease and desist letter – what should I do?
Speak to us! We can look at the claims being made, what your options are, and give you advice on the risks and how to respond.
What if someone copies me?
Hopefully this won’t happen but if it does, come and speak to us. We can look at what protection you have, what’s actually being copied, and help you work out what steps to take next.
Can I get a trade mark registered worldwide?
Yes. But you’ll need deep pockets! It’s not possible to file one trade mark covering the whole world. We specialise in coming up with a strategy to protect your trade mark in the countries you need it most, and in the most cost-effective way.
Is it expensive to protect my trade mark?
“expensive” is all relative. But the short answer is no. Trade mark protection in most countries (including the UK) lasts for 10 years. It gives lots of benefits and is a property of your business. It’s hugely valuable, and there is, of course, a cost in securing that protection which reflects the value you’re getting.
I have my company name registered, why do I need a trade mark registration as well?
There are very limited rights given to a company name registration. It mainly identifies the business for admin purposes. A trade mark registration gives much wider rights that can be enforced against other people copying you.
Contact Us
We’d love to hear from you if we can help you with your trade mark needs.
Drop us an email: enquiries@harbourandclark.com to set up a call, or meet for a coffee, and we can take it from there.
If we can’t help you ourselves, we have a great network of other legal professionals and we can put you in touch with them if necessary.
Information
Harbour and Clark Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales, company registration number 16898667, registered office address:
Suite 4, The Works, 6 West Street, Olney, Buckinghamshire. MK46 5HR