Features

• Locarno classification set to be reformed

  As design protection becomes more common, a number of problems with the Locarno classification have become apparent. David Stone reports on an attempt to update the system

• Time to reconsider the PHOSITA

  Maintaining consistency and ensuring stability in the patent examination process are crucial to the issuance of quality patents. Marian Underweiser of IBM proposes one way to make the process more predictable

• A guide to pitch perfect sound marks

  

  India's trade mark registry granted its first sound mark in August this year. Ranjan Narula and Rachna Bakhru look at the implications for brand owners in the region

• Your guide to geographical indications worldwide

  Managing IP asked correspondents in eight jurisdictions that provide some form of protection for GIs or their domestically named equivalent to address the key questions for brand owners

• Mediation spells trade dress success

  Richard Posell explains why mediation may be a particularly attractive option for resolving trade dress disputes

• Combat grey market goods in the US

  Case law surrounding grey market goods is still developing in the United States, but Ronald Dove and Hope Hamilton suggest some practical strategies for successfully preventing their importation and distribution

• Birth of a rocket-docket

  

  US Magistrate Judge Stephen Crocker has recently taken on a bigger role at the nation's latest patent rocket-docket. Eileen McDermott spoke to him about how the Court will continue to handle the heavy patent caseload minus one judge, as well as what the future holds

• IP Clinic: Should I choose civil or criminal remedies to protect my trade marks in China?

  "I work for a global company doing business in China. We have a problem with counterfeiters and I am not sure what is the best way to enforce my trade marks." Responses from a lawyer, in-house counsel and investigator