trademark applications

What is a Trademark?

TM Photo

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.

Trademark Applications Web Specimens: the USPTO Releases New Guidelines

Web specimen blog 300x212 - Trademark Applications Web Specimens: the USPTO Releases New Guidelines

Because so many companies market their goods and services online, owners and management naturally expect that their branded websites will be good specimens to support their applications for trademark registration and extensions.

Websites are usually excellent and appropriate demonstrations of the use of a trademark. But, companies are well-advised to use extra care when submitting a website sample as a supporting specimen for trademark registration; the USPTO’s examination of them is especially exacting. If it finds the specimen insufficient, the consequence may be long delays in the application process and possible rejection of the mark.