[kayzee]

Hi where I work we're looking at releasing a new product for car diagnostics...

We have a name ready for the product, do we actually have to register this somewhere to make sure we're not conflicting with another company? As far as a Google search shows, we wouldn't be directly in competition with anyone in a similar field.

Thanks for anyone in the know

[wombar]

Trademarks etc is a very complicated area, but you'd be well advised to check here for starters: Intellectual Property Office - Welcome to the Intellectual Property Office

You can search through the relevant categories to check whether anyone is using the name/phrase already. However, just because someone hasn't trade marked something, it doesn't mean you can use it as you please. There's all kinds of issues like who started using it first and what industry the two parties operate in.

Definitely do some reading up on the subject because it can be a very costly mistake if you get it wrong. If you can trademark something, it's usually worth it because it just gives you a bit of extra protection should push come to shove.

[Mac Man]

Originally Posted by kayzee

Hi where I work we're looking at releasing a new product for car diagnostics...

We have a name ready for the product, do we actually have to register this somewhere to make sure we're not conflicting with another company? As far as a Google search shows, we wouldn't be directly in competition with anyone in a similar field.

Thanks for anyone in the know

You'll need a law firm with experience in this area. We did a similar exercise a few years ago with our company's name after a a competitor appeared with the same name. It's never gone anywhere but we wanted to cover our selves.

I guess if you google 'trademark solicitors', or similar, you'll get plenty of choice.