Basic IP Terminology Series—What is a Trademark?

Earlier this month, I posted the first blog entry in my basic IP terminology series about copyright.  This time, we’ll take a look at what exactly a trademark is and what the benefits are of protecting and registering your trademark.

What is a Trademark?

Trademark and copyright are often confused by those who are unfamiliar with how IP rights are distinguished.

A trademark is a word or design (like a logo) that is used in a branding capacity to indicate to consumers the source of the particular product or service that is being offered to the public.