Trademark Protection and Registration
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To establish trademark protection is called a ‘standard character mark’. This only applies to the name, not coloring, fonts or styling. Registering a company name prevents others from using it or anything too similar. Your name is protected despite other companies’ styling.
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Once you create a website, pursue copyright and trademark registration to protect your name and logo from infringement. It ensures no company steals your idea and logo design.
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There are costs to register a trademark application and lawyer fees. Depending on use, particularly in commerce, there may be additional fees. Once registered, occasional maintenance fees must be paid.
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Trademarks prevent others from reproducing or using identifying brand features without permission. This extends to names or logos easily confused with yours. All brand elements are trademarked as soon as they’re in use. Formally register trademarks. Without this, taking action against theft is more difficult.
Registering a Trademark
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You can sue if someone tries to challenge your trademark ownership. The first person or company to use a unique mark gets the trademark, limited to a small area. For wider protection, register the trademark with the US Patent and Trademark Office. Since trademarks identify a company or brand, it makes sense to file for protection on the brand name, logo or image. Your image may also qualify for copyright protection. Trademarks also help companies build loyalty. Trademark a logo after finishing the design.
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You can apply for a US trademark yourself or use a lawyer. Apply yourself, you pay the filing fee. It costs around $250. The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) lists fees here. If you use a lawyer, costs vary based on their work and time.
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The cheapest way to trademark is to file with your state. The cost varies. While cheaper, state filing only provides local protection.
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Acquire a trademark by using it with your business. Exceptions exist. A "common law trademark" has limits. The USPTO reviews applications. Registered trademarks have advantages like presumed validity.
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Initial application costs $250 to $350. Additional costs happen like drawing fees and extensions of time. Renewal applications occur.
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You cannot register a trademark for free. "Common law trademarks" have geographic limits. The government charges fees based on the trademark "level." Calculating cost, consider form type.
Costs of Trademarking a Logo and Name
- How much does it cost to trademark a logo and name?