When you have an item that you want to trademark, you want to ensure that nobody else can profit from your product by copying it. Listed below are a few simple steps to follow to register your product for a trademark. Although it may seem overwhelming, it is quite easy:
1. Understanding the Process
What exactly does it mean to “register a trademark”? It is a process that you must follow to secure a trademark for a product. First, you need to fill out an application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. This is usually called the USPTO. It can also be found online at www.uspto.gov. This is a government office in the U.S. that’s responsible for distributing federal trademarks. The only way to have an “official” registered trademark is when it is approved by the USPTO.
2. Perform a Trademark Search
Early on, you should perform a trademark search. This ensures that there are no other trademarks, which also includes very similar trademarks. The website for the USPTO is where you can conduct this search in their database. It is strongly recommended that an attorney conducts this search, because most of us are not experienced enough when it comes to search words. An attorney can ensure that the trademark is 100% available.
3. Complete the Application
After your search for a trademark, the next step is to fill out the application. This form is also found on the USPTO’s website. There are many technical questions that are asked on the application. Once again, it is best to have an attorney do this. An experienced Trademark Attorney is able to answer everything accurately. Also, if any part of the application is wrong or incomplete, your request will be denied. This is yet another reason why you need an experienced Trademark Attorney to handle this for you.
4. Follow up on your Application
Even though you registered does not mean that your application is approved immediately. Sometimes there are questions the trademark examining attorney has or requires a little more clarification on. You need to respond to these questions right away or your application will be considered abandoned. The best way to follow up on your application is to visit the website every two months. By logging into your account, you can see if there are any questions or concerns the attorney has.
5. Final Registration
It will take about 9-12 months from the time you initially applied before your application is approved. The U.S. Government will send you a trademark registration certificate in the mail. Along with your certificate will be a list of instructions you need to follow to keep your trademark registration active.
Although this process can be lengthy, it is well worth it in the long run. By registering your product for a trademark, you ensure that nobody can copy your product. By allowing a trademark attorney to assist with your application process, you know that everything was done correctly and without unnecessary delays. You can only get this from an experienced attorney, and once again, it’s worth it.
Trademark Works
Level 19, Two IFC
8 Finance Street
Central, Hong Kong
(852) 2251 8140