If you have a product or name that is unique for your business, it is important to get a trademark to protect that special name or product. Chances are, you have worked very hard to think up a unique product, and it is important to establish a presence in the market world. Typically, trademarked products or names attract more customers than those without trademarks because customers know the trademark means quality.
How To Get a Trademark
How to get a trademark can be very simple , as long as you know how to do so. Following is an outline of the steps to get a trademark:
Step 1: Create the trademark.
Before you can have something trademarked, you must create it. It can be a word, phrase, name, or symbol, but it must be unique and attractive. Consider something that can be used for many generations and that fits your product or company well. Consider hiring a special team or person who is creative to help you design the trademark, or if possible, pull people off regular work and have them focus on this special project. Also, consider having the team handle all aspects of the trademark, from creation to completion.
Step 2: HIRE AN ATTORNEY, if desired.
An attorney is not required, but it can save you time. There can be a lot of paperwork involved, as well as certain legal conundrums associated with trademarks, and the attorney will know the best way to handle any problematic situations.
Step 3: Search for any use of the desired trademark.
Once you have a trademark, design created, it is important to make sure it is not already in use. Check the website of the United States Patent and Trademark Office, which is free to use. If you have hired an attorney to help you, they can handle this part of the process.
Step 4: Prepare a drawing of the trademark.
This should be done professionally, as it will be used on all products produced by your company. If you know someone in your company who draws, consider using them or hire someone outside the company. Just make sure to check their work and make sure everything is correct before sending it off.
Step 5: Register the trademark.
If you are using an attorney to help, they will handle this step. If not, many websites available can help you. Some require a small fee for processing. When you fill out the application for the patent, make sure to check all your information.
Step 6: Start using the “TM” or “R” designation as appropriate.
Once you have started the application process, you can start to use the “TM” designation when writing or advertising your product or service. You cannot, however, use the trademark designation on specific products until registration is complete.