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How should I use the ® and ™ symbols?

Senior Trademark Attorney

The ® symbol should be used once the trademark is fully registered with the relevant IP office. It can only be used in jurisdictions where the trademark is actually registered; using it in countries where no registration exists is not permitted in most jurisdictions.

The ™ symbol can be used freely at any stage; before filing, during the pending period, or after registration; to signal a claim of trademark rights. It is not restricted to registered marks and carries no legal requirement to meet before use.

Once a trademark is registered in a jurisdiction, switching from ™ to ® in that jurisdiction is standard practice. For marks used internationally, ™ is often used in markets where no registration has been obtained, and ® in those where registration is confirmed.

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