What is the process of registering a trademark?
Registering a trademark in Washington is a relatively straightforward process. The first step is to determine if the trademark is available for registration. This can be done by searching the Internet, federal databases, and the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) database to determine if the trademark is already registered or applied for. If the trademark is available, then a trademark application must be filed with the USPTO. The trademark application must include an identification of the type of goods/services for which the trademark will be used, a description of the trademark, and a drawing of the trademark that is being registered. Once the application is filed, the USPTO examines the application and determines if the trademark is available for registration. If the trademark is available, the USPTO will issue a notice of allowance and the applicant must submit a statement of use. This statement confirms that the applicant is using the trademark in commerce. The USPTO will then examine the statement of use and either approve or deny the application. If the trademark application is approved, the USPTO will issue a trademark registration certificate to the owner of the trademark. This certificate gives the owner exclusive rights to the trademark and allows them to take legal action against anyone using the trademark without permission. The registration is valid for 10 years, and must be renewed after that point in order to maintain the rights to the trademark.
Related FAQs
What is the process for obtaining international intellectual property protection?How do I know if I own the intellectual property rights on my idea?
What is the Fair Use Doctrine?
What is the difference between copyright and design protection?
How long does a patent last?
What is the scope of trademark protection?
What are moral rights in intellectual property?
Are there any intellectual property laws that protect my work?
What is the difference between a copyright and a license?
What is a trade dress infringement?
Related Blog Posts
The Supreme Court’s Role in Intellectual Property Law - July 31, 2023Benefits of Protecting Intellectual Property Rights - August 7, 2023
Understanding Trademark Law Basics - August 14, 2023
What is the Difference Between a Patent, a Trademark and a Copyright? - August 21, 2023
How Can an Intellectual Property Lawyer Help Your Business? - August 28, 2023