What are the laws governing the use of non-profit logos and trademarks?
Non-profit organizations in the state of California must abide by the laws set forth by the United State Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). These laws are necessary for the protection of non-profit organizations against potential trademark infringement and unauthorized use of their logos and trademarks. The USPTO encourages non-profit organizations to register their logos and trademarks as official marks. Registration provides non-profits with exclusive legal rights to the logo and trademark, allowing them to sue any organization or individual who uses it without permission. Non-profits that have not officially registered their logos and trademarks are still protected under the common law trademark doctrine. This doctrine allows the non-profit organization to sue if they can prove that the use of the logo or trademark has caused confusion with consumers or that the use of the logo or trademark is taking away from their profits. Non-profits are also required to follow the rules of the California Secretary of State when displaying the logo or trademark. These rules state that the logo or trademark must be publicly and accurately associated with the non-profit organization and should not contain false or misleading information. Non-profit organizations in California should also be aware that they could face civil or criminal charges if they are found to have violated the USPTO laws and regulations. To protect against this risk, non-profits should ensure that they are following the laws governing the use of non-profit logos and trademarks.
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