Wrigley Claydon Solicitors

Category: Business & Employment

  • A Step-by-step guide on how to apply for a trademark in the United Kingdom

    1. Determine the Need for a Trademark:

    Make sure you have a distinctive name, logo, or slogan that you want to protect ensuring that it is not already in use by another company.

     

    1. Trademark Search:

    Conduct a trademark search to check if someone else is already using a similar or identical trademark. Use the UK Intellectual Property Office’s (IPO) online search tools or consider hiring a trademark lawyer. .

     

    1. Classify Your Goods and Services:

    Trademarks are registered for specific classes of goods and services, so choose the right classes that match your business activities.

     

    1. Create a Trademark Application:

    Visit the UK IPO’s official website (www.gov.uk/guidance/trade-marks) to access the online trademark application system.

     

    1. Complete the Application Form:

    You’ll need to provide detailed information about your trademark, including the image (if it’s a logo) and a description of the goods/services it will cover. Be precise and accurate in your application.

     

    1. Pay the Application Fee:

    The cost may vary depending on factors like the number of classes and the filing method. Check the current fee schedule on the UK IPO’s website.

     

    1. Review and Submit the Application:

    Review your application for any errors or omissions and submit electronically once satisfied. Keep a copy of the application and any payment receipts for your records.

     

    1. Examination by the UK IPO:

    They will ensure that your application meets all the legal requirements, complies with trademark laws and does not conflict with existing trademarks. This can take several months.

     

    1. Publication of the Trademark:

    If your application passes the examination, it will be published in the UK IPO’s Trademarks Journal. This allows anyone with concerns about your trademark to object within two months.

     

    1. Opposition Period:

    During the two-month opposition period, third parties can raise objections to your trademark registration. If there are no objections, or if they are resolved in your favour, your trademark will proceed to registration.

     

    1. Registration Certificate:

    If your trademark application is successful, you will receive a registration certificate from the UK IPO. This certificate proves your exclusive rights to use the trademark within the UK.

     

    1. Maintain and Protect Your Trademark:

    It’s essential to monitor and renew your trademark periodically to maintain its protection. Trademarks in the UK are typically valid for ten years, and you can renew them indefinitely.

     

    It’s advisable to seek legal counsel or consult with a trademark lawyer throughout this process to ensure that your application is correctly prepared and to address any potential issues that may arise during the registration process.

  • McLaren seeks at least $23 million in damages from Alex Palou

    It has been reported that McLaren is seeking at least $23m from IndyCar champion Alex Palou after the driver reneged on his contract for 2024.

    According to a claim filed in the High Court of Justice Business and Property Courts of England and Wales Commercial Court, Palou had agreed that he had “no outstanding obligation under any contract or agreement” that would prevent him from joining McLaren once the 2023 IndyCar season ended.

    However, after rejecting Chip Ganassi Racing for McLaren, Palou then performed a U-turn and rejected McLaren for Chip Ganassi Racing.

    Had the original deal with McLaren come into being Palou would have raced for McLaren’s IndyCar project alongside a test and reserve role with the F1 team ahead of a future switch to the world championship. Palou took part in a year-long programme with McLaren including private test sessions and his FP1 debut at the US Grand Prix last October.

    A McLaren spokesman said, “We have a contract, so it’s now in the legal process we filed in London courts last week against him both as a person and his business entity, and we’ll just let the legal proceedings carry the situation forward.”

     

    Suffering a dispute can have serious implications on you and your livelihood.  Our litigation solicitors will quickly and efficiently put your case together and act on your behalf. Call Vijay Srivastava or Shalish Mehta in the litigation department on 0161 624 6811(Option 6) or email vjs@wrigleyclaydon.com or sm@wrigleyclaydon.com. We can advise you on the appropriate course of action and assist with any legal documents or proceedings that may occur.

    Civil Litigation
    Dispute Resolution
    Commercial Litigation
    Spinningfields Office, Manchester

  • 5 Steps to consider before buying or leasing commercial property

    5 Steps to consider before buying or leasing commercial property

    When it comes to renting or buying a business property, there are several steps you should consider to make the best decision for your company. Here are some key steps to follow:

    1. Determine your budget: Before you start looking for a business property, you need to determine your budget. Consider how much you can afford to spend on rent or mortgage payments, as well as other costs like utilities and maintenance.
    2. Consider your location: The location of your business property is crucial. Look for areas that are easily accessible for both customers and employees. Consider factors like traffic flow, parking availability, and nearby amenities.
    3. Evaluate the condition of the property: If you’re considering buying a commercial property, get the property surveyed to evaluate its condition. If you’re renting, make sure to carefully review the lease  and identify any potential issues that may need to be addressed.
    4. Consider your financing options: If you’re buying a property, consider your financing options. Look for lenders who specialize in commercial property loans and compare rates and terms to find the best deal.
    5. Negotiate the terms: Whether you’re renting or buying, it’s important to negotiate the terms of the lease or purchase agreement. Work with your lawyer or broker to help you negotiate favourable terms and protect your interests.

    By following these steps, you can make an informed decision when it comes to renting or buying a business property. Remember to take your time, do your research, and make a decision that meets the needs of your business and fits within your budget.

  • 8 Benefits of setting up a limited company

    8 Benefits of setting up a limited company

    Setting up a limited company in the UK offers several benefits for entrepreneurs and businesses. Here are some of the key advantages:

    1. Limited liability: One of the most significant benefits is limited liability protection. As a shareholder or director of a limited company, your personal assets are separate from the company’s finances.
    2. Professional image: A limited company structure can enhance your professional credibility and reputation.
    3. Tax efficiency: Limited companies in the UK are subject to corporation tax on their profits, which can be more tax-efficient than personal income tax rates and benefit from various tax planning opportunities.
    4. Separation of personal and business finances: Running a limited company allows for clear separation between your personal finances and those of the company. This separation simplifies accounting and financial management, making it easier to track business income, expenses, and profits.
    5. Access to funding and investment: Limited companies have more opportunities for raising capital compared to other business structures. They can issue shares to attract investors, apply for business loans, seek venture capital, or participate in government funding schemes.
    6. Perpetual succession: A limited company has a perpetual existence, separate from its directors and shareholders. This means that the company can continue to operate even if the ownership or management changes.
    7. Personal remuneration options: As a director and shareholder of a limited company, you have flexibility in how you receive income. You can pay yourself a combination of salary, dividends, and benefits, allowing you to optimize your personal tax position and potentially reduce your overall tax liability.
    8. Brand protection: Registering your business as a limited company can protect your chosen company name. It ensures that no other company can use the same or a similar name, reducing the risk of brand confusion and infringement.

    It’s worth noting that setting up and running a limited company comes with certain responsibilities, such as fulfilling legal and regulatory obligations, maintaining proper accounting records, and submitting annual accounts and tax returns. Therefore, it’s advisable to seek professional advice from an accountant or business advisor to understand the specific implications for your situation.

  • Budget retailer Wilko on brink of collapse with 12,000 jobs at risk

    High Street retailer Wilko has confirmed that there are “no immediate store closures planned” following their announcement that they had filed a notice of intention to appoint administrators.

    The chain has over 400 stores and 12,000 members of staff across the UK who have now been put at risk.

    A notice of intention to appoint administrators does not necessarily mean that Wilko will go into insolvency, but it gives it time to attempt to shore up its’ finances, such as by finding a buyer.

    Both Made.com and clothing shop Joules went into administration last year, but both were rescued in deals with high street retailer Next.

    Wrigley Claydon has a team of lawyers that specialise in Employment Law who regularly advise on unfair dismissal claims, discrimination claims, contracts of employment and compromise (settlement) agreements.

     

    Call Shan Shahriar on :-
    Manchester Office: 0161 914 9881
    Oldham Office: 0161 624 6811
    Todmorden Office: 01706 815712

    Alternatively, please email Shan at sms@wrigleyclaydon.com

    Business Solicitor
    Commercial Property Solicitor
    Company Law Solicitor
    Company Health Check Solicitor
    Employment Solicitor
    Commercial Litigation
    Spinningfields Office, Manchester

  • Virgin Media O2 announces plans to slash up to 2,000 jobs

    Virgin Media O2 is to axe up to 2,000 jobs by the end of 2023.

    It said the move, which includes around 800 previously reported job cuts, will affect around 12% of its workforce.

    It follows BT and Vodafone in reducing the size of its workforce.

    The cuts come around two years after the business was created by the £31 billion merger between mobile operator O2 and broadband and TV specialist Virgin Media.

    A spokesman said: “As we continue to integrate and transform as a company, we are currently consulting on proposals to simplify our operating model to better deliver for customers, which will see a reduction in some roles this year.

    “While we know any period of change can be difficult, we are committed to supporting all of our people and are working closely with the CWU (Communication Workers Union) and Prospect along with our internal employee representatives as we have open and honest conversations on the future direction of our business.”

    Wrigley Claydon has a team of lawyers that specialise in Employment Law who regularly advise on unfair dismissal claims, discrimination claims, contracts of employment and compromise (settlement) agreements.

     

    Call Shan Shahriar on :-
    Manchester Office: 0161 914 9881
    Oldham Office: 0161 624 6811
    Todmorden Office: 01706 815712

     

    Alternatively, please email Shan at sms@wrigleyclaydon.com

    Business Solicitor
    Commercial Property Solicitor
    Company Law Solicitor
    Company Health Check Solicitor
    Employment Solicitor
    Commercial Litigation
    Spinningfields Office, Manchester

  • Facebook owner Meta fined €1.2bn by EU over breach of data protection

    Ireland’s data regulator, Data Protection Commissioner Helen Dixon has imposed a record €1.2 billion fine on Facebook owner Meta, which has its EU headquarters in Dublin, for violating European privacy rules, in a move that takes total penalties against the company above €2 billion.

    It follows from a long investigation into transfers by Facebook of Europeans’ personal data to the US.

    Meta has also been directed to suspend any future data transfers within five months and told to cease within six months the “unlawful processing, including storage, in the US” of European data transferred in violation of EU law.

    Wrigley Claydon is one of few firms in the area able to boast a dedicated team of lawyers dealing solely with the needs of businesses. This team is led by John Porter, our experienced business solicitor.

    Acting as your business’ solicitor we understand your individual needs and have a team of specialist lawyers ready to assist you.

     

    Call Shan Shahriar on :-
    Manchester Office: 0161 914 9881
    Oldham Office: 0161 624 6811
    Todmorden Office: 01706 815712

    Alternatively, please email Shan at sms@wrigleyclaydon.com

    Business Solicitor
    Commercial Property Solicitor
    Company Law Solicitor
    Company Health Check Solicitor
    Employment Solicitor
    Commercial Litigation
    Spinningfields Office, Manchester

  • BT to axe up to 55000 jobs by 2030 as it pushes into AI

    BT have said that it would axe up to 55,000 jobs by 2030 to slash costs in the latest tech-sector jobs cull.

    The layoffs, which comprise of 42% of its workforce, come two days after Vodafone unveiled plans to cut 11,000 jobs or one tenth of staff over three years.

    BT employs 130,000 staff, including contractors. The group will lower this to between 75,000 and 90,000 people over the next five to seven years, it said in a results statement.

    Wrigley Claydon is one of few firms in the area able to boast a dedicated team of lawyers dealing solely with the needs of businesses. This team is led by John Porter, our experienced business solicitor.

    Acting as your business’ solicitor we understand your individual needs, and have a team of specialist lawyers ready to assist you. 

    Call Shan Shahriar  on :-
    Manchester Office: 0161 914 9881
    Oldham Office: 0161 624 6811
    Todmorden Office: 01706 815712

    Alternatively, please email Shan at sms@wrigleyclaydon.com

    Business Solicitor
    Commercial Property Solicitor
    Company Law Solicitor
    Company Health Check Solicitor
    Employment Solicitor
    Commercial Litigation
    Spinningfields Office, Manchester

  • Lidl and Tesco in copyright dispute over logo

    Tesco and Lidl are involved in a High Court case over a yellow circle logo on a blue square background. The logo is used by Lidl as its main logo and by Tesco to highlight offers available to members of its Clubcard scheme.

    Lidl claim that Tesco have infringed a trademark and copyright. It alleges that Tesco is “seeking deliberately to ride on the coat tails” of its reputation as a “discounter” supermarket and says the use of the sign in connection with Tesco’s Clubcard prices is “intended to, and does, cause members of the public to call to mind Lidl’s business and its trademarks”.

    Tesco has brought a counterclaim and alleges that Lidl’s wordless mark trademarks should be declared invalid as it has never been used by Lidl in the UK. It alleges the application for it was made “solely for the purposes of deployment as a weapon in legal proceedings”.

    The trial is due to end shortly.

    Suffering a dispute can have serious implications on you and your livelihood.  Our litigation solicitors will quickly and efficiently put your case together and act on your behalf. Call Vijay Srivastava or Shalish Mehta in the litigation department on 0161 624 6811(Option 6) or email vjs@wrigleyclaydon.com or sm@wrigleyclaydon.com. We can advise you on the appropriate course of action and assist with any legal documents or proceedings that may occur.

    Intellectual Property Solicitors
    Civil Litigation
    Dispute Resolution
    Commercial Litigation
    Spinningfields Office, Manchester

  • Former BrewDog staff accuse craft beer firm of bullying at the workplace

    Craft beer firm, BrewDog, has apologised to former employees who accused the company and its co-founder James Watt of fostering a “culture of fear” where workers were bullied and “treated like objects”.

    In an open letter former workers alleged that BrewDog’s growth resulted in cutting corners on health and safety, failing to live by its values, and creating a “toxic” culture that left staff suffering from mental illness.

     

    Watt said “We are committed to doing better, not just as a reaction to this, but always; and we are going to reach out to our entire team past and present to learn more. But most of all, right now, we are sorry.”

     

    Suffering a dispute can have serious implications on you and your livelihood and reputation.  Our dispute resolution solicitors will quickly and efficiently put your case together and act on your behalf. Call Vijay Srivastava or Shalish Mehta in our civil and commercial litigation department on 0161 624 6811or email vjs@wrigleyclaydon.com or sm@wrigleyclaydon.com. We can advise you on the appropriate course of action and assist with any legal documents or proceedings that may occur.

    Civil Litigation
    Dispute Resolution
    Commercial Litigation