Blog & News

Launching Your Record Label – Your Legal Checklist

Starting a record label is a great way to promote your sound, attract like-minded artists and build an eco-system around the music you love. But, first and foremost, they are…

What to include in my freelancer agreement?

We’ve heard a lot about artificial intelligence and machine learning this year, but there are still some tasks best undertaken by homo sapiens – particularly art, craft, design and other…

Can you trade mark a heart?

The Board of Appeal of the European Union Intellectual Property Office (the Board) has refused to recognise as valid a trade mark for the 3D shape of a bread roll…

Welsh Single Malt Whiskey Gains Geographical Identification

After Brexit, the UK geographical indication scheme was established to provide legal protection against imitation and misuse of certain food and drink products. Recently, “Single Malt Welsh Whiskey” was recognized…

Transferring personal data between the EU and the US just got a little bit easier

Last month, the European Commission adopted its adequacy decision for the EU-US Data Privacy Framework. The decision means that the European Commission is now satisfied that the US ensures an…

The Legal Adventures of Generative AI: Navigating the Maze of IP Law

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has taken the world by storm, but we’re not talking about Siri or Alexa. We’re talking about AI-generated art, music, and even food recipes. But with great…

Twitter’s rebrand to X reinforces the importance of trade mark protection

It would come as no surprise to you to hear that Twitter, the social networking site purchased by Elon Musk, has rebranded and moved away from its famous ‘blue bird’…

How To Protect Your Business From Trade Mark Infringement

In today’s competitive business environment, establishing a strong brand is vital for success. Beyond setting you apart from competitors, a well-established brand fosters customer trust and loyalty. However, the prevalence…

Do I Need a Written Contract?

In the dynamic landscape of business and personal transactions, the question often arises: “do I need a written contract?”. While oral agreements may be tempting for their simplicity and informality,…

Understanding Copyright and Fair Use

When it comes to copyright, the law tries to strike a balance between copyright protection and the public’s interest in accessing and using creative works for various purposes. English law…

What are Confidentiality Agreements? – UK

A confidentiality agreement is a legal agreement that binds one or more parties to non-disclosure of confidential or proprietary information. It’s often used in situations where sensitive corporate information is…

Fake Websites: what to do, where and when

Let’s face it, internet scammers and fraudsters are clever as they often employ sophisticated techniques to deprive consumers of their hard earnt cash (and businesses of their revenue). It’s on…

Copyright infringement… does it really come with the territory?

“Where there’s a hit, there’s a writ”, at least that’s what Ed Sheeran now thinks having fought off many claims against his successful body of works. But is that always…

Lidl V Tesco: new ruling on injunction

A new development in the Lidl v Tesco battle (see more here: What’s next in the Lidl v Tesco trade mark saga? | Briffa Legal) has left Tesco’s well-known Clubcard…

Your Guide To Unregistered IP Rights In The UK

Intellectual property (IP) plays a crucial role in today’s knowledge-based economy. In the United Kingdom, individuals and businesses generate a wide range of creative works and innovations. While many people…

The 5 Most Common Mistakes When Filing A UK Trade Mark Application

Protecting your business identity and establishing brand recognition in the UK starts with filing a trade mark application. However, the process can be complex and filled with potential pitfalls. In…

Confidential Information and Intellectual Property

Protecting confidential information and intellectual property requires additional measures beyond general data security practices.  There are several steps that can be taken to help safeguard your confidential information and intellectual…

UK Registered Design Protection and Process

To obtain registered design protection in the United Kingdom, you can follow the process administered by the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO). Here are the necessary steps involved: Application preparation:…

Elton John trade marks his own name

Elton John hasn’t just been busy with Glastonbury recently, he has also been applying for a trade mark behind the scenes for his iconic name. His decision underscores the increasing…

Hermès takes action against NFTs

Hermès recently secured a significant trade mark victory in the United States, which serves as a reminder of the importance of trade mark protection for businesses worldwide. Although the case…

Should I apply for a trade mark in my personal name or my company name?

Before exploring trade mark protection, it is important to consider who will own that trade mark. Owning a trade mark under your personal name versus your company name can have…

Can you verbally assign intellectual property rights?

No, verbal assignments of intellectual property rights are generally not considered valid or enforceable. In most jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom, intellectual property rights are legally recognised and protected under…

Marking Correspondence Without Prejudice: Protecting Your Legal Interests

In the realm of legal matters, effective communication is vital. Parties involved in a legal dispute often engage in discussions and negotiations through correspondence such as letters, emails, and memos.…

Communications to the public – Blue Air and UPFR

Case Background The adjoined case C‑775/21 and C‑826/21, Blue Air and UPFR involved a referral from the Romanian court to the CJEU regarding music onboard public transport and communications to the…