Definition

Opposition is the administrative procedure through which a holder of earlier rights can challenge the registration of a recently published trademark. It avoids long and costly court litigation.

Deadlines and conditions

• INPI (France): 2 months after publication in the BOPI
• EUIPO (EU): 3 months after publication
• WIPO: 18 months (subject to designated national office windows)
• Justification of earlier rights (trademark, company name, domain name)
• Fee payment (EUR 350 to 720 depending on the office)

Possible outcomes

• Withdrawal or voluntary amendment of the disputed application
• Coexistence agreement negotiated between parties
• Total or partial rejection of the disputed trademark
• Opposition denial

Preparing an opposition

A strong case relies on active trademark monitoring, solid proof of use and a strategy aligned with the portfolio. Centralisation in IP software helps track critical deadlines.