Introduction:
Having spent time and work creating a unique logo for your business, the next step is to think about trademarking it to keep it safe. Because of concerns about trademark infringement or deception, many companies have been reluctant to go with this approach. However, trademarking a logo from the outset is a wise decision if you have the financial resources.
In this article, we’ll discuss the requirements for trademarking a logo.
Let’s get started!
What is a Trademark?
A trademark can be any term, phrase, symbol, design, or combination that distinguishes your goods or services. It’s how clients identify you and differentiate you from your competition in the marketplace.
Business names, sounds, symbols, and colors associated with a particular brand are all protected under trademark law. Trademarks protect intellectual property.
Various Levels Of Trademark
#Local TradeMark
The least expensive choice is the local trademark. If you pick this option, you may be able to win a case against someone who infringed on your area, but it’s not assured that you’ll be able to do that in other countries too.
#State TradeMark
The state trademark is a preferable alternative if your firm only operates in a single state. When registering a brand, the secretary of state’s office conducts the procedure.
This is a more cost-effective solution than registering a trademark with the federal government. The registered trademark would be sufficient if your business operates just on the territory of a single state.
#Federal TradeMark
Federal trademarks are costly yet powerful logo protection. The USPTO, or the United States Patent and Trademark Office, processes this safe to protect your brand on a federal level.
You have full legal ownership of your logo in the United States if you hold a federal trademark. One of the many advantages of owning a national brand is the opportunity to sue anybody who infringes on your trademark and receive damages if your claim is successful.
With the aid of U.S. Customs, you’ll be able to confiscate things that bear your brand without your permission. Even outside the United States, it’s possible to receive comprehensive trademark protection through a federal trademark.
How To Get A Trademark For Your Logo?
1. Consult the rules of USPTO
The USPTO has a list of requirements that must be met before your logo may be registered as a trademark (USPTO). To avoid any confusion and misinformation, it must be distinctive and distinct.
2. Accurately Label Products And Service
Once you’ve verified that your logo fits all USPTO’s standards, you’ll want to classify your goods correctly. Your goods or services must be described in full when applying for a trademark.
Your products or services should be classified into one of the 45 categories available. Denial of the application might occur if the application is miscategorized. That’s why it’s so essential to acquire the expertise of a trademark expert who can help you avoid any misunderstanding and submit a trademark lawfully.
3. Submit A Specimen
You’ll need to provide a commercial sample for the USPTO by photographing the logo on an item you are selling. The logo should also be prominently displayed.
Once you’ve completed the following procedures, you’ll be able to obtain a USPTO confirmation immediately. However, they may have to wait up to a year to complete their evaluation.
Your application may be checked using the Trademarks Status and Document Retrieve database. Your receipt’s serial number should serve as a reference number.
The USPTO requires a Trademark Declaration of Continued Use and a Trademark Renewal every five years if your application hasn’t run into any problems.
Conclusion
To trademark a logo, you must follow all rules and regulations, including a distinctive and original logo design.
You must ensure that your logo does not resemble an existing one. Consequently, the creative process must be regarded seriously. Don’t even think about copying or plagiarizing from another firm when filing for a patent or trademark.
Next, you’ll need to ensure that your intellectual property is protected. Further safeguards are taken by large businesses to protect their assets. As a result, the best course of action is to take the steps necessary to meet your firm’s demands.
The trademarking of a logo is a lengthy procedure. For those contemplating a career in this field, be sure to incorporate this in your business plan from the beginning.