1.Conduct a Self-Assessment
Upon receiving a TRO notification, the first step is to remain calm and conduct a comprehensive review of your store's operational status. Take time to thoroughly examine your listings, product details, trademarks, patents, copyrights, and intellectual property rights. Additionally, review your marketing strategies to ensure they do not involve spam tactics or unethical competition. This proactive approach helps prepare robust evidence in case of legal proceedings.
2.Seek Professional Legal Advice
It is highly recommended to consult a lawyer specializing in cross-border eCommerce litigation and intellectual property protection, as TRO cases often involve complex legal procedures. A legal expert can help assess the case attributes, evaluate potential consequences, and provide strategic guidance. With their assistance, sellers can gain a clearer understanding of the situation and make well-informed decisions.
3.Gather Case Information
Utilize official TRO databases and online platforms to collect as much information as possible about the prosecutor, the reason for the TRO, and the case’s progress. The quality and quantity of this information significantly impact the legal strategy formulated by your lawyer.
4.Decide Whether to Settle or Contest the Case
If a lawyer advises that a settlement is feasible, the seller should proactively negotiate with the prosecutor to reach an agreement and minimize further disputes. If choosing to contest the case, it is crucial to prepare comprehensive documentation, including patent authorization certificates, product export licenses, and other supporting materials. Additionally, submit all required legal documents and defense statements on time. Successfully defending the case will protect your business reputation and prevent financial penalties, although the process may be time-consuming.
5.Contact Amazon’s Official Support Channels
Report the case to Amazon’s official support team as soon as possible, providing corresponding evidence to seek their understanding and assistance. Actively cooperating with Amazon’s policies and procedures can help expedite issue resolution and minimize disruptions to daily store operations.
6.Strengthen Compliance and Risk Management
Take this opportunity to improve your intellectual property protection measures and ensure compliance with Amazon's policies. Sellers should eliminate spam marketing tactics, avoid infringement issues, and prohibit unethical competitive practices. Additionally, conduct periodic internal audits to identify potential risks early and prevent future violations.