Checklist of Matters to Consider Before Bringing a Trademark or Copyright Infringement Action

The decision to commence legal proceedings should not be made on an ad hoc basis. Proper due diligence and early information gathering allow for a better assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of the prospective plaintiff’s case and help shape an effective litigation strategy—including whether non-litigation options should be considered. 

1. Identify the Rights in Issue 

- Is the claim based on a registered trademark(s), common law rights, copyright, neighbouring rights, or moral rights? 

- Identify the applicable rights. 

- Confirm the plaintiff’s ownership of the rights. 

- If applicable, determine whether the rights are registered, who the registered owner is, and whether steps should be taken to register them. 

- Ensure there is a clear chain of title. 

- Assess whether the plaintiff’s rights may be vulnerable to challenge. If they are bringing an action may not be appropriate.

2. Identify the Alleged Infringers 

- Determine who is responsible for the infringing activities; corporate searches and other investigations may be necessary. The importance of a thorough investigation cannot be over-emphasized. An appropriate response cannot be developed without full knowledge.  

- Conduct a market assessment. 

- Consider the size and scope of the infringer’s business, where it operates, whether it is a competitor, and its litigation resources. 

3. Identify the Infringing Activities and Causes of Action 

- Identify the acts that violate the plaintiff’s rights. 

- Identify the applicable causes of action. 

4. Assess the Scope of Harm 

- What harm or damage is being suffered? 

- Can damages be quantified or estimated? 

- What is the size or potential size of the market? 

5. Consider the Appropriate Remedies 

- What remedies are available? 

- Which remedies are necessary to achieve the plaintiff’s objectives? 

6. Select the Appropriate Forum 

- Assess whether the dispute involves other legal issues. 

- Evaluate whether to proceed in Federal Court or a provincial superior court. Depending on the causes of action identified and the desired remedies, a prospective plaintiff will have to consider the relative advantages of proceeding in the Federal Court or the provincial superior court with jurisdiction over the prospective defendant.

 7. Consider the Required Evidence 

- Identify the evidence necessary to support the claim. 

8. Formulate a Legal Strategy 

- Develop a litigation plan; update as information evolves. 

- Determine the approach (aggressive vs. conciliatory). 

- Assess risks and benefits of litigation vs. settlement vs. inaction. 

- Evaluate costs, recovery prospects, and PR implications. 

9. Prepare an Appropriate Demand Letter 

- An effective demand letter may avoid litigation. 

- An undertaking to cease infringement may be sufficient. 

10. Consider Whether to Make an Offer to Settle 

- Court rules may impose cost consequences if a reasonable offer is refused. 

11. Prepare the Statement of Claim 

- Ensure alignment with the adopted legal strategy. 

To ensure your rights are fully protected reach out to us for a detailed review of your situation and potential remedies. 

To stay informed visit my blog and subscribe to my bi- monthly newsletter discussing the latest decisions and law concerning trademarks and copyright.

If you have questions, please contact me at  jmckeown@LN.Law

John McKeown

Loopstra Nixon LLP.  

130 Adelaide St W Suite 2800Toronto, Ontario, M5H 3P5Canada

 jmckeown@LN.Law

437 290-5960

This article is of general nature and is not intended to provide specific legal advice as individual situations will differ. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances. Copyright © John Mckeown, All rights reserved. To unsubscribe to the IP Update please send me an email at jmckeown@Ln.Law

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