The most expensive branding mistake is building on a name someone else already owns.
Rebranding after launch means new website, signage, packaging and marketing, plus the goodwill you have already built in a name you have to stop using, and possibly a legal letter arriving just as the brand starts working.
A search before you commit costs a fraction of that, and it will also tell you whether the name is registrable at all, which is a different question from whether anyone else is using it.
A clearance search checks whether a proposed name or logo is available to use and register.
Typical uses include:
- a new business, product or service name;
- a rebrand or a new trading name; and
- checking a name before you buy the domain and commission the design work.
We search the UK register looking not only for identical marks but for the similar ones that can block you, in the classes of goods and services that matter to you.
You get a plain-English verdict of whether you can proceed as intended, whether changes are needed or whether you should explore another name, with the reasoning behind it.
Our Approach
Legal advice that makes running and growing your business easier.
We start with your business, not the law.
Before we open a document, we want to understand what you are trying to do commercially. The legal answer is only useful if it serves that.
We get to the point.
You get a clear view of what matters and what does not, in plain English, with the real risks separated from the noise.
We give you an answer.
Not a menu of options and a shrug. We tell you what we would do, why, and where there is a genuine judgment call for you to make.
We stay available.
Whether you work with us on a single project or on a subscription, we are here for the follow-up question. We would always rather you asked.
Ways of working together
Fixed-fee projects
A single, defined piece of work for an agreed fixed fee, communicated before we engage. Reviewing a contract, drafting your terms, handling a negotiation.
No surprises and no hidden fees
Flagship Subscription
Ares Access
Ongoing support on a fixed monthly subscription, for businesses that need commercial legal input regularly rather than as the occasional one-off.
- Dedicated lawyer
- Fixed monthly fees
- Commercial advice on demand
From £500 plus VAT per month
Legal Health Check
Fixed fee of £2,000 plus VAT
Any questions?
Phone: 02382 420035
