Claiming a Domain

[monger]

I am starting to import a widget from Europe and before the first widget has even gotten on a ship, someone has already snatched up the domain to the European company's trade mark.

The trade mark is unique and descriptive. <snip>

The new owner is at TUCOWS and hiding behind <a private registration>

I'd like to contact this current owner and claim the domain as I believe I can based on an existing trademark but sending in the lawyers is not really an option. I don't have any.

Can someone suggest a good way of going about this?

[edited by: Webwork at 1:13 pm (utc) on April 21, 2007]
[edit reason] Charter [webmasterworld.com] [/edit]

[stu2]

If your trademark is regged before the domain name, and if they are using it in bad faith, then you might consider a WIPO action. Best dealt with by lawyers, imho. I think the application fee is $1500. I'm sure you'll get the right link if you search for "WIPO".

[bobothecat]

I'd like to contact this current owner and claim the domain as I believe I can based on an existing trademark but sending in the lawyers is not really an option. I don't have any.

I'd suggest you find one ( lawyer ) if you plan to tackle this issue with any merit.