Are you searching to learn more about protecting your company name or logo with a trademark?  One of the first steps many entrepreneurs take when starting a business in California is protecting the name of the company, its catchphrase or its logo from duplication or misuse.  This is done by obtaining a trademark or a service mark from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.  A trademark is part of your company’s intellectual property and is granted to mark to the providers of a service.

The first step in the process of obtaining a trademark or a service mark is to check the USPTO website to ensure that the name or mark is not already in use. Once this is done, the application can be submitted.  The USPTO advises applicants to be clear about what words or symbols they would like protected.  The application should also indicate if the marks are already being used or if they will be used in the future.

Once the application is submitted, the review process will begin. Protecting your company name or logo with a trademark can take several months to complete, but the USPTO allows applications to be submitted and monitored online.  A fee must be paid at the time the application is submitted, and the USPTO does not refund the fee if the application is rejected.  Once a trademark certificate is issued, it must be renewed when required.  Failure to submit the necessary renewal paperwork or fee in a timely manner may result in the trademark or service mark being cancelled.

While the USPTO website provides instructional materials and videos to help individuals with the application process, consulting the attorneys at Watkins Firm with trademark and patent experience is a prudent step to take.  We invite you to contact the Watkins Firm or call 858-535-1511 to discuss the legal use of a trademark or service mark and how we can help to ensure your application is accepted.