Question 1

What is a Trademark?

Accepted Answer

A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol, and/or design, (a "mark"), that identifies and distinguishes the source of goods.  It is how consumers distinguish your product from others on the marketplace. The word "trademark" can refer to both trademarks and service marks. A service mark is a word, phrase, symbol, and/or design, (a "mark"), that identifies and distinguishes the source of services. Filing a trademark application can secure ownership of your brand!

Question 2

Why should I register my trademark?

Accepted Answer

Registering your trademark is an important step for protecting your brand identity. Registering your trademark can protect your intellectual property and ensure that no one else can use your name or logo to do business.  It is almost always your safest bet to prevent another business from using your logo or name to conduct business.

Question 3

What is eligible for trademark registration?

Accepted Answer

Business name
Business logo
T-shirt brand
Stage name
Blog/Podcast title
App name
Catch phrase
Title of book series
Product name
Nonprofit Name
Program Title
Slogan/Tagline
Signature event title

Question 4

What is NOT eligible for trademark registration?

Accepted Answer

Ideas
Concepts
Methods
Systems
Inventions
Names of Songs
Name of a single creative work
T-shirt designs
Ornamental designs
Generic words/phrases
Widely used messages

Question 5

Can I file my trademark application before I launch my business?

Accepted Answer

Using an Intent to Use application, you can file your application before you launch your business. It is the best way to ensure that your trademark is eligible to be registered before you start selling your goods and services.

Question 6

What can happen if I don't register my trademark?

Accepted Answer

By choosing not to register your trademark, you could be infringing on the trademark rights of someone else.  This means that the trademark owner could insist that you cease and desist from using the trademark, which can be very costly if you have to rebrand as a result. If you do not want anyone to prevent you from using your trademark, or otherwise restrict how you can use your trademark, then it would be worth your while to invest in your business and register your trademark.

Question 7

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

You can either schedule a consultation to get started, or you can purchase the trademark package directly (which also includes a consultation). If you read the FAQ's and you still have questions, then schedule a consultation so you can speak with our attorney. But if you already know that you want to register your trademark, you can get started by purchasing the trademark package directly!

Trademark Frequently Asked Questions