Disaster is said to have erupted for Meghan Markle as she's forced to "change track" of a major life decision, it has been revealed.

As it emerged that Meghan's application to have her brand - American Riviera Orchard - trademarked was rejected, the 43-year-old has been given three months to respond to the "nonfinal officer action", which was issued by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

Speaking about the process, a US-based source told the Mirror last month: "The process for acquiring a trademark is extremely rigorous. It would be a surprise if Meghan had not received one before in trying to get her application through.

"She is still very much committed to her brand and has three months to respond. There is no way this will lead to abandonment."

The news comes after a pal spoke out about Harry and Meghan going through a major shift in their professional lives.

The pal told PEOPLE: "It's clear that a twin-track approach is evolving."

Also speaking about the couple, another pal added: "The Duke and Duchess have now hit their stride as individuals – not just as a couple. The Duke appears focused on his patronage work, and the Duchess focused on her entrepreneurial track."

Discussing Meghan's focus, they added: "An entrepreneurial and enterprise focus is going to be more the Duchess's priority and the Duke will continue to champion his not-for-profit patronages. But there will be joint efforts around those cause-driven areas of work."

Stating that it is in no way a reflection of their relationship and is based on Meghan and Harry's parenting priorities, they added: "[It's] as much a reflection on parenting priorities, in that one of them stays behind with the children."