Can I register a business name as a trademark?
Yes, you can register a business name as a trademark in Maryland. A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol, design, or combination of all of these elements, used to identify a particular product or service in the marketplace and distinguish it from other products or services. When registering a business name as a trademark in Maryland, you must first submit an application to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The application will need to include information about the trademark itself, such as a general description, and provide other documentation, such as proof of use.The application may also require an identification of the goods or services associated with the mark. You will also need to be sure that your business name is not already used as a trademark by someone else. The USPTO will conduct a trademark search to make sure that your business name is not already in use. If the search comes back clear, you will need to submit a trademark registration fee and wait for USPTO to approve your application. Once you are approved, you will have the exclusive right to use the trademark as a signifier of your product or services for a period of 10 years in Maryland with the option to renew for another 10 years if needed. Registering a trademark is an important step for any business looking to protect their name from infringement.
Related FAQs
What is the correct way to use my trademark?What kind of protection does a trademark provide?
Can I register a trademark for an invented word or phrase?
What is an Inter-Partes Review and how does it work?
What are the costs associated with registering a trademark?
What is trademark opposition and how can it be resisted?
What is the difference between using the ™ and ® symbols?
What is the Madrid Express and how can it help me safely register trademarks internationally?
What is the Madrid Protocol and what benefits does it provide?
How do I obtain trademark protection in the United States?
Related Blog Posts
Understanding the Basics of Trademark Law - July 31, 2023The Most Common Questions About Trademark Law - August 7, 2023
Protecting Trademarks in Canada: What You Need to Know - August 14, 2023
Trademark Law: How to Protect Your Intellectual Property - August 21, 2023
Avoiding Common Mistakes When Registering Trademarks - August 28, 2023