Supporting Nottingham Pride through pro bono trade mark expertise

Recently, Jordan provided pro bono support to Notts Pride, helping the charity secure trade mark protection for its brand. The work helps safeguard an important part of Nottingham Pride's identity as it continues to support and represent the LGBTQ+ community.

We spoke with Jordan about the project, the importance of trade mark protection for charities, and his experience of supporting Nottingham Pride on a pro bono basis. We also hear from Nottingham Pride about the impact the support has had.‍

How did you become involved in supporting Nottingham Pride? How did the conversation or collaboration between you and Nottingham Pride begin?

I became aware, through a colleague at Potter Clarkson, Sophie Butler, of a conflict between the charity Nottingham Pride and another party hosting a “Nottingham Pride” event without any connection to the charity. As a Nottingham based law firm that attends and supports Nottingham Pride each year, we considered it appropriate to reach out and offer initial legal guidance in relation to this matter.

Why is it important for an organisation like Nottingham Pride to secure a trade mark, and what benefits will it bring to their community work?

By maintaining an active trade mark registration for the name and associated graphical elements, they are better placed when enforcement issues arise, as those registered rights can be relied upon in legal proceedings as clear evidence of ownership. Additionally, it provides some reassurance that, where the trade mark is used, the relevant goods and/or services originate from the official charity.

What aspects of this pro bono project have been the most meaningful or rewarding for you personally?

Being able to use our expertise to help protect the rights of a charitable organisation has been particularly rewarding and helping a local charity is especially meaningful, as it supports the continued growth and wellbeing of Nottingham and its community.‍

Could you walk us through the main steps involved in preparing and filing the trade mark application for Nottingham Pride? 

We reviewed Nottingham Pride’s previously refused application and assessed the reasons for refusal, which we then explained to Nottingham Pride. We also considered the registered rights held by other Pride organisations, to ensure the new application reflects their current and future needs.

Why do you feel pro bono IP support is important for charities and community groups and how does it align with Potter Clarkson’s values?

Charities and community groups use their funds to support vital work assisting the most vulnerable in society. Providing what would typically be costly legal advice on a pro bono basis not only helps to protect the charity but also enables their resources to be directed towards those important causes. Potter Clarkson is known not only for its commercial expertise and professionalism, but also for its friendly and collaborative approach with clients. Pro bono work therefore sits at the heart of Potter Clarkson’s values.

We also asked Nottingham Pride to share their perspective on the support received and the impact it has had:

"Having the support from Potter Clarkson has been invaluable to a small charity like Notts Pride. Knowing that the branding is now protected by law, affords us the confidence and security to continue our work without the anxiety of reputational damage and the harm this could cause the LGBTQ+ community. We couldn’t be more grateful."

Craig Martin, Nottingham Pride