What is a trademark? A trademark is a word, name, emblem or gadget, which is used in trade with goods to specify the source of the goods and to make a distinction them from the goods of others. Think of a trademark is normally a brand name. Trademarks are used for a lot of different products ranging from a to z. In order get a trademark you must get in contact with the American government and organization that handles trademarks. That organization is the United States Patent and Trademark Office, and is under the United States Department of Commerce. They protect the owner of the trademark so no one can use the word, name, symbol or device to make money off that product if it has a trademark. Here some things that a trademark helps in having one. A beneficial notice of owner's claim of the trademark nationwide. Proof evidence of ownership of the trademark. Jurisdiction of federal courts may be invoked. Registration can be used as a basis for obtaining registration in foreign countries. Registration may be filed with U.S. Customs Service to prevent importation of infringing foreign goods. If you are staring a company and you want no one to use your company's name only with your consent. You don't have to register you trademark but you should because a federal registration has several advantages including notice to the public of the registrant's claim of ownership of the mark, a legal presumption of ownership nationwide, and the exclusive right to use the mark on or in connection with the goods or services set forth in the registration. When you do want to file a trademark application you don't need attorney but although it may be desirable to employ an attorney who is familiar with trademark matters. The forms may be downloaded, filled out and mailed in. Many applicants find it beneficial to search a mark (to see if there are any registered, pending, or previously used marks) before filing a trademark application.
