Trademark
The filing process
A trademark is a distinguishing sign used by businesses - usually a name, phrase, logo, design or image. It’s a way for businesses to separate themselves from their competitors, and is often used in marketing strategies as a way to draw customers’ attention.
Your business trademark is legally protected and can’t be used by your competitors as long as you’ve had it properly registered. While unregistered trademarks can sometimes be protected, it can be a difficult process, so it’s best to legally claim your trademark.
Claim Your Image
Trademarking is an easy way to claim a name or logo for your business, which in turn makes for quick advertising strategies. There isn’t even much to the process! If you choose to file through an attorney, he or she will deal directly with the Patent Office, and you won’t have to go through any of the process yourself.
You can file a trademark application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office yourself, over the Internet, by mail or in person - really, the only way you can’t file a trademark application is by fax.
It’s important that you fill out the application completely and accurately, and you need to be aware of all the requirements and rules that go along with trademarking your image. It might be smart to consult a small business lawyer before you submit. Even the smallest error or omission can create delays, which can in turn negatively affect your business plan, so you want to make sure you’re fully prepared.
International Trademarks
The process of filing a trademark internationally is a little different - and a little more expensive - than a traditional domestic trademark. Again, you’ll probably want to enlist the help of an attorney to make sure you’re filing all the correct paperwork and following the rules, so that your trademark goes through successfully.
However, for the most part a small business usually won’t file an international trademark, unless the business is frequently involved in another geographical area.
A Worthwhile Cost
Most businesses can expect to pay around $1000 for a single trademark, after paying for legal representation and filing fees. However, in the end the trademark can pay for itself by making your business recognizable to your target audience.
