Crowdfunding Businesses: Canada MSB License Required
On April 05, 2022, the Government of Canada announced a number of changes that impact the financial services industry. One of these changes occurred through the amendment to the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act (PCMLTFA). The changes mostly pertained to broadening PCMLTFA’s
Can I Trademark My Name?
Many entrepreneurs face the exciting and important task of creating a name for their new business. It is important to get a business’s name right because it may be integral to the brand’s identity and the overall recognition of the brand. Many entrepreneurs wish to use
Can my Canadian Trademark Application be Expedited?
One common question we get asked is whether it’s possible to expedite the trademark application process. Normally, it takes 18 to 24 months or longer to receive trademark registration approval from the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO). When you file a Canadian trademark application, it is
Legal Guide to Starting an Online Business in BC
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a dramatic shift in the way we do business. Traditional brick and mortar businesses as well as new startups are quickly pivoting to online platforms in order to connect and service their customers. The BC government
Avoid These 4 Common Misconceptions About Trademark Protection
As a business law firm that has worked with countless startups, entrepreneurs and small businesses over the past decade, we witnessed several common mistakes made by clients when it comes to protecting their brand. We want to share the top 4 misconceptions about trademark protection that
Should I Incorporate a Named or Numbered Company?
Listen to this post In short, there is no legal difference between incorporating a named or numbered company. However, the difference lies in what you wish to do with the company. Incorporating a Named Company If your company deals with the general public and you plan
Colourful or Colourless? Protecting a Colour Trademark
During a never-ending road trip, you finally come across a sign that is red and yellow and you’re starving! What comes to your mind? Most likely McDonalds! Certain colours have gained recognition after a long period of use, such as the red and yellow colours
Determining Nice Classes for Trademarks in Canada
Since the CIPO’s adoption of the Nice Agreement as of June 17, 2019, it is mandatory for trademark applicants to classify all goods and services under the Nice Classification system in accordance with the Trademarks Act. For those applying for a trademark for the first time, determining the appropriate class of
Don’t Overlook the Impact of Boilerplate Clauses in Your Contract
Standard clauses, also known as “boilerplate” provisions, are general contract provisions that may be found in various agreements. These standard clauses may increase efficiency, reduce time and money spent on drafting, and ensure consistency across agreements. However, sometimes standard clauses are included into contracts without due consideration of their legal effects. It is imperative that