What is the difference between using the ™ and ® symbols?
In Kansas, trademark law helps define what a company or individual can use to protect their brand. A trademark is a symbol, word, phrase, or other designation used to identify and differentiate a company’s products or services from those of its competitors. These symbols are used to let customers know the source of the product they are buying, and to protect the company from potential infringement. The two symbols commonly associated with trademark law are the ™ (often also referred to as TM) and ® symbols. The ™ symbol is used to notify the public that a company or individual is making a claim of trademark ownership over a certain word, phrase, or symbol. It does not indicate that the trademark has been registered with a government, but rather that a product or service is being marketed under the specific name or logo. The ® symbol, on the other hand, indicates that the trademark has been officially registered with the federal government or within a particular state. When the ® symbol is used, it grants the trademark owner certain legal protections in regards to the use of their trademark and allows the owner to seek civil or criminal action against any potential infringers. In Kansas, it is important to be aware of trademarks and their symbols, as they help to protect a company’s products and services from theft. While it is not necessary to register a trademark in order to place a ™ symbol, it is important to remember that the ® symbol must only be used in conjunction with trademarks that are officially registered.
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