The World Intellectual Property Organization ("WIPO") approved an amendment to restructure the services classified in International Class 42. Class 42 will be divided among Classes 42, 43, 44 and 45 as of January 1, 2002. The revised classifications are as follows:

Class 42

• Scientific and technological services, and research and design relating thereto
  
• Industrial analysis and research services
  
• Design and development of computer hardware and software
  
• Legal services

Class 43

• Services for providing food and drink
  
• Temporary accommodation

Class 44

• Medical services
  
• Veterinary services
  
• Hygienic and beauty care for humans or animals
  
• Agriculture, horticulture and forestry services

Class 45

• Personal and social services rendered by others to meet the needs of individuals (e.g., social event services, funeral services, matrimonial agencies, etc.)
  
• Security services for the protection of property and individuals

International Class 42 was previously considered a miscellaneous classification which afforded broad coverage for trademarks registered in that class. The amendment does limit this coverage but provides an advantage to new trademark applications and existing registrations by preventing potential conflicts between marks. Marks which would have conflicted under the broad range of Class 42 may not necessarily do so if now registered under different classes. The amendment allows more trademarks to be registered and less money spent on opposition and cancellation actions.

For further information on the amendment go to the WIPO Website at www.wipo.org.

Home Page | Attorneys | Client Listing
News & Publications | Write Us

Last updated 24-Sep-2001.