The question of cost almost always comes first. The answer is not “X euros” — but a clear structure with two parts: office fees and the lawyer’s flat fee.

Component 1: office fees

Office fees are levied by the relevant patent offices. They depend on two factors:

  • Territorial scope of protection (Austria, EU or international)
  • Number of goods and services classes (the basic fee covers a certain number of classes; each additional class carries an extra fee)

Office fees are fixed and not negotiable. They typically rise in steps with every additional class.

Component 2: the lawyer’s flat fee

For our work we charge a flat fee that is clearly agreed with you before any activity — no hourly rate, no nasty surprises. The fee typically covers:

  • Advice on trademark strategy
  • Selection of goods and services classes
  • Drafting of the specification
  • Filing with the patent office (national, EUIPO or via WIPO)
  • Management of the mark for 10 years

Office actions, oppositions or defences are separate mandates — we always inform you up front of the expected costs.

Geographic scope of protection drives the order of magnitude

Three typical constellations:

  • Austria — the national base mark. Comparatively moderate office fees, sensible for local business models or as a stepping stone to internationalisation.
  • EU-wide (EU trademark) — one filing covers all 27 member states. Higher office fees, but a substantially larger scope of protection.
  • International (WIPO) — protection in more than 90 countries possible; prerequisite is a base mark. Fees are calculated per designated state.

The investment in a trademark filing is one of the cheapest insurances for your business — often in the range of a few thousand euros, with ten years of protection.

Tailored to your case

Since costs depend on classes, scope of protection and depth of search, in our free initial consultation we prepare a precise calculation — including the flat fee and expected office fees. That way you know what you’re investing before each step.

This article is for general information and does not constitute legal advice in any specific case.