The Value of Trademark Registration

Trademarks are an important, though often overlooked, aspect of any business. A properly protected trademark can help preserve the value of your business and even enhance it. Common law rights in a trademark arise from actual use of a name, logo or symbol in commerce. However, rights important to the protection and enforcement of the trademark can be obtained only through registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

There are several reasons to register your trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Here are a few of the most important ones:

1.    A trademark establishes ownership of your brand. If you trademark your idea, design, packaging, or slogan, it is much easier to defend it against those in court who might try to claim it.

2.    If you do not trademark your property, it can harm your company’s reputation should another entity of lower quality try to lay claim to it.

3.    Failure to obtain and employ a trademark correctly can cause confusion among consumers if another product or service has the same name and identity.

4.    Products and services are not your company’s only assets. Your name and other intellectual properties are also valuable goods worth protecting with a trademark.

The Hauert Law Office helps small businesses and start-ups navigate the intricacies of applying for the right kind of trademark for your most important asset, even if that asset is a single word. If you want to learn more about how you can protect your business and your growing reputation, contact the Hauert Law Office at your convenience.