Is Your Brand Prepared For Canada’s New Trademark Laws?

Starting June 17, 2019, the Canada Trade-marks Act will get a significant makeover that will impact the intellectual property assets of every startup, entrepreneur, and small business in BC. These amendments aim to streamline the Canadian trademark process and improve system infrastructure, to better align with

The Dangers of Using Online Legal Templates

With a few simple keystrokes in a Google search, new entrepreneurs and startups can gain access to a wealth of resources, tools and information online regarding new business matters. It’s understandable that many new entrepreneurs and startups will be budget-conscious with the mindset of minimizing startup

Do I Reeeally Need a Shareholders’ Agreement?

Hello everyone, we’re going to have a quick chat with you about shareholders’ agreements. When we’re looking to start up a new business, a new corporation, and there’s more than one partner involved or more than one shareholder involved, it is incredibly important for you to

Dear Accountants, Please STOP Incorporating Companies

Hello everyone, this is a message for my fellow professionals, the Chartered Accountants of British Columbia. Specifically, those accountants who continue to incorporate companies on behalf of their clients, which is in breach of their code of professional conduct and is illegal to boot. Now I’ve

A Brief Guide to Not-For-Profit Incorporations [Infographic]

This infographic gives an overview on the fundamental characteristics of a not-for-profit corporation and covers: What defines a not-for-profit corporation? What type of entities can be considered a not-for-profit corporation? The differences between a not-for-profit vs for-profit The advantages of legally incorporating a not-for-profit corporation. This

Federal VS Provincial Incorporation: Which is Right For You? [Infographic]

New business owners in BC are faced with many important decisions that will influence the direction and growth of their business. One of these decisions is determining which type of registration is best for your business moving forward. Many of you, if not the vast majority

Now a Reality: International Trademark Protection for Canadian Businesses

The Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO) is taking significant steps to help Canadian businesses expand to international markets through the modernization of Canada’s IP system. The CIPO will be joining three important international trademark treaties which will help Canadian businesses looking to enter or expand their presence

Re-branding or Opening a New Dental Practice – Is Your Name Trademark-able?

In CDSBC’s 2019-20 Annual Report, there are a total 3,951 registered dentists in British Columbia. There are also 700+ dental clinics currently operating across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.   With more practices entering the marketplace, how do you ensure that your brand identity and reputation

Getting Familiar with a Purchase & Sale Contract for 1st Time Buyers

The prospect of owning property for the first time is an exciting milestone in life. But many first time buyers have little to no knowledge about the standard terms of a Contract of Purchase and Sale, which can be an intimidating process for some. The following