How long does a trademark last?

A trademark is a symbol, phrase, or word used to identify a specific product or service in a marketplace and distinguish it from other products or services. In California, trademarks can last indefinitely, as long as the trademark is actively used and its registration is renewed periodically. This means that the trademark owner must continue to use the trademark and submit an application to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) to renew their registration every ten years. The USPTO also requires that the trademark owner continues to use their trademark to maintain protection. If it is not used over a long period of time, the trademark will become vulnerable to being cancelled by the USPTO. This could occur if someone else begins to use the trademark, or if the trademark is found to be “genericized” and not associated with a particular product or service. Overall, the registration of a trademark in California is intended to be a long-term protection from competitors claiming the same or a similar trademark. This protection can last indefinitely, as long as the trademark is actively used and its registration is renewed periodically. If the trademark owner fails to maintain their registration, they risk losing their exclusive rights to the trademark altogether.

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