Gehrke & Associates will help you obtain trademark protection, license trademarks, and determine infringement is taking place.
A trademark is a symbol or name that designates the origin of goods. A service mark is a symbol or name that designates the origin of a service. In other words, it is the symbol or name that lets the public know something came from you. These are sometimes called brands. They help consumers identify who is responsible for the quality of what they purchase and help build good-will toward your product.
Having a strong, well thought of trademark or service mark is important for any successful business. It is also important to make sure that your mark is not infringing an existing mark. This avoids the possible liability for trademark infringement and the cost of changing your mark after all your packaging and letterhead has been printed and you have invested time and effort into building market recognition.
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Types of Trademarks
Federal
If you are involved in or planning to enter a business that crosses state lines, you should register a federal mark. A federal mark allows nation-wide protection and the best protection of your mark.
State
If you are involved in or planning to enter a business that is local and never crosses state lines, a state trademark or service mark allows you to protect your mark within your state. A state mark is also a good way to gain quicker protection than a federal mark, public notice of your mark, and access to state courts for some infringement situations. Therefore, a state mark is a good supplement to a federal mark.
International
If your business is international, you should have trademarks in those countries in which you market or plan to market. If your business is on the Internet, it is international whether you intend it to be or not. Seventy-four countries utilize the Madrid System for the International Registration of Marks to allow easier International Registration.
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