Get Started – Trademark Search & Registration

A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol, or design, or a combination of these elements, that is used to identify and distinguish the goods or services of a business from those of another. The elements of a trademark can include:

• The brand name or mark itself, which can be a word, phrase, symbol, logo, or design.
• The goods or services with which the mark is associated. A trademark registration is specific to particular goods or services and the owner needs to use the mark in relation to those goods/services.
• The use of the trademark in commerce. A trademark registration is only valid if it is being used in connection with the sale of goods or services.
• The strength of the mark. Trademarks can be classified as either strong or weak. Strong trademarks are distinctive and easy to remember, while weak trademarks are generic or descriptive and may be more difficult to protect.
• The similarity of the mark to other trademarks. Trademarks that are too similar to existing trademarks may be denied registration by the United States Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO).
• The intention of the trademark applicant to use the mark in commerce. The trademark applicant need to provide an intent to use the mark in commerce, not just an intent to reserve a right to use the trademark in the future.

What is the importance of conducting a trademark search?

Conducting a trademark search before launching a product or service in the marketplace is important because it can help identify any existing trademarks that may conflict with the proposed trademark. If a conflict is found, the identified pending or registered trademark can prevent the proposed trademark from being registered, and may also lead to legal challenges if the product or service is launched using the proposed trademark.

Additionally, conducting a trademark search can also help identify any similar trademarks that are already in use, which can inform business decisions about branding and marketing strategy.
It is also important to conduct a trademark search to make sure that the proposed trademark is not too similar to any other existing trademarks, as this could lead to legal challenges from the owners of the existing trademarks.

A trademark search is a cost-effective way to minimize the risk of costly legal disputes, and to ensure that the proposed trademark is legally available for use.

How is a state and federal trademark search conducted?

A state trademark search is conducted by searching the database of registered trademarks within a specific state or all 50 states and US territories. This state trademark search can typically be performed through the website of the state’s trademark office or through a trademark law firm (like NexTrend Legal) that has access to all state (and US territories) trademark databases. A federal trademark search is conducted by searching the database of pending and registered trademarks maintained by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The federal trademark search can be performed through the USPTO’s website or through a trademark law firm (like NexTrend Legal) that has access to the federal trademark databases. In both cases, the trademark search will typically involve looking for any pending and registered trademarks that are similar to the proposed trademark in terms of both the mark itself and the goods or services for which it is used.

What is the importance of a trademark registration issued by the USPTO?

A trademark registration issued by the USPTO provides legal protection for a word, phrase, symbol, or design, or a combination of these elements used in connection with goods or services. This means that if someone else uses a similar mark in a way that is likely to cause confusion among consumers, the owner of the registered trademark can take legal action to stop them. Additionally, a registered trademark can be used as evidence of ownership and can serve as a deterrent to potential infringers. Furthermore, a registered trademark can be licensed to others or be used as collateral for loans. It also provides the right to use the ® symbol and to bring suit in federal court. It also gives the owner the right to record the registration with US Customs and Border Protection to prevent importation of infringing foreign goods.

How is a trademark registered with the USPTO?

To register a trademark with the USPTO, the following steps must be taken:

• Conduct a trademark search: Before filing an application, it is important to conduct a trademark search to ensure that the mark is available and not too similar to existing trademarks. The USPTO has a database of registered trademarks and pending applications that can be searched.
• File an application: The next step is to file a trademark application with the USPTO. The application must include the mark, a description of the goods or services with which the mark is associated, the applicant’s name and address, and a statement of use or intent to use the mark in commerce.
• Examination: After the application is filed, it will be examined by an examining attorney at the USPTO to ensure that it meets all legal requirements and does not conflict with existing trademarks.
• Publication: If the application is approved, it will be published in the Official Gazette, which is a weekly publication of the USPTO. This allows other parties to object to the registration of the mark if they believe it conflicts with their own rights.
• Registration: If there are no objections, or if any objections are overcome, the mark will be registered and the registrant will receive a certificate of registration.
• Renewal: Trademark registration is valid for 10 years, and it can be renewed for additional 10 year periods as long as the mark is in use; provided the appropriate trademark maintenance documents are submitted to the USPTO between the 5th and 6th year of registration.

Please note that the trademark registration process can take ten months to a few years to complete and it is important to consult an attorney to guide through the process.  If you are looking for assistance with a trademark search and registration, please do not hesitate to contact us today.