Why Protect.TM
Attorneys
Applications are handled by experienced local Trademark Attorneys to ensure that all legal requirements are met.
Communications
A dedicated Account Manager will act as your point of contact for all communications.
Tracking
You can use our admin panel to track and review the current status of any service you have requested.
More Services
At Protect.TM, we offer end-to-end trademark solutions. Our Trademark Study helps assess viability, Trademark Registration secures your brand’s rights, and Trademark Renewal ensures continued protection.
Establish Your Rights
Whether expanding into new regions or strengthening your brand’s legal protection, our expert services provide the foundation you need to safeguard your identity and prevent unauthorized use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I conduct a trademark search?
If you have some knowledge about trademark registration, you can use an online trademark search tool. If not, it's advisable to hire a trademark attorney or a service like Protect.TM to manage your trademark registration needs, especially the trademark search, as the process can be complex and time-consuming.
Keep in mind that if the application process is not completed correctly, the registration can be delayed for several months and may end up costing more than expected. The trademark search is a crucial step in the process.
Conducting a comprehensive trademark search is vital in today's market due to the growing number of unregistered and common law trademarks. Globalization also necessitates considering international markets and registering trademarks in other countries to safeguard your brand and property rights.
Be aware that even a thorough trademark search does not guarantee that your trademark will be accepted and registered. A Trademark Study involves an in-depth review process and, importantly, a formal assessment of the likelihood of your application's success.
Why is it important to conduct a trademark search?
Once you have a product or service and think you have a name for it, how can you be sure it's yours to use? What if you accidentally use a name that's already trademarked?
Many people choose a name without checking if they have the legal right to use it. They launch big marketing campaigns only to find out later that they can't use the name. Doing a trademark search before registering a trademark is a smart move, especially to avoid future legal issues.
It's wise to do some research before using a trademark in business. If another company is already using the same mark in your industry, they might challenge your use of it and legally stop you.
What is an initial trademark search?
Before you invest time and money into applying for a trademark, it's crucial to conduct a preliminary trademark search.
If you're familiar with trademarks, you can use our free trademark search tool or others like the TMView search engine to check for existing trademarks that are the same as the one you plan to use. Keep in mind that even if your search doesn't find any identical trademarks, it doesn't guarantee that the Trademark Office will approve your application.
If you're not experienced with trademarks, it's a good idea to seek professional assistance. Our company offers a service called Trademark Study, which provides information on the classes where you might want to register your trademark. It also lists identical and similar trademarks and includes an attorney's recommendation on the likelihood of successful registration and use of your trademark.
What types of trademark searches are available?
There are different types of searches, including basic (knockout) searches, which check for exact matches, and comprehensive searches, which analyze similar names, phonetic variations, and logo similarities across multiple databases.
Can I register a trademark without conducting a search?
While it is possible, it is highly discouraged. Without a search, you risk infringing on existing trademarks, which could lead to legal disputes, rejection of your application, or the need to rebrand later.
Does a trademark search guarantee that my application will be approved?
No, a search helps identify potential conflicts, but the final decision rests with the trademark office, which also evaluates distinctiveness, descriptiveness, and other legal criteria.
How long does a trademark search take?
The duration varies depending on the type of search. A basic search may take a few minutes, while a comprehensive search conducted by professionals may take a few days.
Should I hire a professional for a trademark search?
While you can perform a basic search on your own, hiring a professional can help ensure a thorough analysis, reducing the risk of future legal issues and increasing the likelihood of a successful registration.
Can a trademark search help prevent legal disputes?
Yes, a thorough trademark search helps identify potential conflicts before you invest in branding, reducing the risk of legal disputes, cease-and-desist demands, or lawsuits from trademark owners.
How often should I conduct a trademark search?
It is recommended to conduct a trademark search before filing an application, before launching new products or services, and periodically to monitor for potential infringement of your registered trademark.
Still have questions?