Trademark Registration

What is a trademark?

A trademark is a form of intellectual property which consists of a sign, design, symbol or words that are associated with or identify a specific item, service or brand.

Trademarks are most often used for the names of products or businesses (McDonald's, Apple, Lexus, etc.). However, trademarks can also include things like domain names and, in certain cases, the specific way a store or storefront is designed.

What does a registered trademark protect and how long does it last?

A trademark protects a company or product name or a logo. In a phrase, trademarks protect the identity of an item or entity in commerce. Only marks officially registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) are able to use the ® symbol, making the public aware of its registration.

Trademarks are the potentially longest-lasting form of intellectual property protection in the United States. Once registered, a trademark is generally protected for as long as the mark remains in use in commerce, provided the owner continues to renew the registration.

How much does trademark registration cost?

The cost of the application varies based on the type of mark, the type of application, and the number of classes the mark is being registered under. You can expect a trademark application to cost between $250 and $350 per class of goods for marks already in use at the time of application.

In terms of time, the trademark application process is usually a 9 to 15 month process. Applications completed by an attorney are not only more likely to be successful, but also more likely to resolve sooner because the required information is provided up front, reducing back-and-forth with the examining attorney.

Can I apply by myself?

While a trademark application can be completed and be successful without an attorney, the process can be difficult and time consuming — roughly 20% of USPTO applications are denied on first action. We always recommend speaking with an attorney before applying for a trademark or any form of intellectual property protection.

Our process

1. 01

   An initial consultation to determine exactly what you need

2. 02

   An in-depth search of all registered, pending and non-registered trademarks that may be similar to your intended mark

3. 03

   A follow-up strategy call to discuss the search report, all potential problems and next steps

4. 04

   Draft and file your trademark application

5. 05

   Follow the application through the USPTO process and respond to any office actions