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Erin McEwen

Erin McEwen

Trademark Agent

Erin is a seasoned Canadian trademark agent and intellectual property strategist with over 20 years of experience helping businesses unlock the value of their brands.

Since becoming a registered trademark agent in 2009, she has built a reputation for crafting practical, creative, and business-focused solutions that empower clients to protect and grow their IP assets—both in Canada and worldwide.

As Leader of the Intellectual Property Practice Group at Nelligan Law, Erin advises clients across all sectors—from startups and solo innovators to large national and international organizations. She is known for her approachable, strategic counsel and unwavering commitment to client success.

Her experience spans the full lifecycle of trademarks, including clearance, prosecution, opposition, enforcement, and portfolio management. Erin is highly experienced in resolving opposition and cancellation proceedings, including international disputes, and helps clients secure Canadian border protection against counterfeit goods.

She maintains strong relationships with foreign counsel worldwide, allowing for seamless global trademark management and effective filing strategies tailored to each client’s needs.

Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, Erin understands the challenges of building and protecting a business. She’s passionate about creating tailored IP strategies that reflect each client’s unique goals, risk tolerance, and growth plans.

A vocal advocate for inclusive IP policy, Erin is a member of INTA’s Indigenous Rights Committee and actively contributes to global discussions around traditional knowledge and cultural expression. She was also part of the legal coalition responding to Quebec’s Bill 96, supporting efforts to ensure balanced, practical approaches to trademark law under new language requirements.

Erin was recognized in the 2025 World Intellectual Property Review Leader directory, a list that reflects the very best of the global IP legal profession.

Erin regularly speaks to students and business groups about IP rights and protection, and is committed to demystifying IP for entrepreneurs and creatives. She is a proud member of 100 Women Who Care – Lanark County and values giving back to the community.
She also served as Past President of the Tourette Canada – Ottawa Chapter and continues to be an advocate for families affected by this neurological disorder.

Outside of work, Erin enjoys time with her family in nature. Together, they raise and release Monarch butterflies each year—a small tradition that reflects her deep care for transformation, resilience, and stewardship.

Education & Professional Associations

  • Certified Trademark Administrator
  • Registered Canadian Trademark Agent
  • McGill University – Trademarks II
  • McGill University – Patents I
  • Willis Business College
  • IPIC
  • INTA
  • INTA Indigenous Rights Committee
  • WIPR World Leader, 2025

Papers, Panels, and
Presentations

Authored
Content

Explore practical articles, guides, and resources designed to help you understand legal issues, stay informed, and feel confident about your next steps.

“Strong and Free” vs. Alberta: When a Licence Plate Drives Into Trademark Trouble

When Alberta unveiled its new licence plate design, replacing Wild Rose Country with Strong and Free, the province likely

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“Madman Trademarking Across the Water” — A Legal Love Letter to Ozzy Osbourne

Some people leave behind a legacy. Ozzy Osbourne left behind a brand manual. And also our entire family, stunned

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Scuba Showdown

Lululemon has officially filed a lawsuit against Costco, and let’s just say the athleisure gods are stirring the pot.

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