Domain Name FAQs

What is a domain name?

Essentially, a domain name is a website address. It consists of two parts: the desired name, for example ‘aathornton’, and the extension, such as .com or .co.uk.


If a domain name is available for registration, can I register and use it?

Not necessarily. A domain name also functions as a trade mark, so it could infringe trade mark rights. If you’re in doubt, you should consider having trade mark searches conducted before you finalise your domain name. Minor changes to a trade mark, such as the addition of a hyphen, aren’t enough to avoid legal issues.


How do I register a domain name?

Registering a domain name is simple, but companies often run into difficulties later when it comes to renewal or management. For example, employees sometimes register domain names in their own names, which can cause significant problems if they then leave the company.

We can help register and manage your domain names to ensure these problems don’t arise.


What is ‘cyber-squatting’?

This is when people register domain names in bad faith, with the intention of profiting from the goodwill of somebody else’s trade mark. If your company is called Smith and Jones, for example, somebody may register the domain name smithandjones.com in order to prevent you from doing so. They may then try to sell the domain name to you for a large sum of money.

Our attorneys have a proven track record in successful domain name disputes so we can assist you in enforcing your rights against cyber-squatters.

We can assist you in all aspects of domain name protection and enforcement. If you have any questions please contact a member of our team or contact us at aat@www.aathornton.com.