Think registering a trademark is a fast and simple? Think again!
According to the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the trademark registration process consists of 17 distinct steps prior to a trademark application being approved for registration and a certificate of trademark registration issuing. Despite this fact, many "trademark companies" (non-lawyers) and trademark lawyers alike would have potential clients believe that it is relatively easy to obtain a United States trademark registration.
Here are some of the trademark registration steps as described by the USPTO:
- identify your trademark format
- identify the goods and/or services for which you seek protection
- search the USPTO database for identical trademarks
- identify the proper basis for filing
- prepare and file the trademark application
- await results of review of the application by the U.S. Trademark Office
Once the U.S. Trademark Office examines the application, it is possible that it will initially refuse the registration based on one of several procedural or substantive grounds. Knowing U.S. trademark law could be the difference between successfully overcoming the refusal to register and having your trademark registration refused.
The complexity of the trademark registration process is one of several reasons why It is important to speak with a qualified Connecticut trademark attorney prior to adopting a trademark for use with your products and services. By doing so, a Connecticut business can save time and money, and avoid risks to its business due to ignorance of trademark laws.
