If you have applied to register your trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”), you may receive something called an “Office Action.” While it can feel discouraging to get one, an Office Action is not a rejection. It is a request for clarification or correction that gives you the opportunity to respond and keep your application moving …
When you’ve poured your time, energy, and creativity into building a business, your name becomes one of your most valuable assets. It represents your brand, your reputation, and everything you’ve worked hard to create. But have you taken the legal steps to protect it? Registering a trademark for your business name isn’t just a formality, it’s a strategic move that …
In the livestock industry, a cattle brand is more than just a mark, it’s a symbol of heritage, reputation, and the identity of a ranching operation. Traditionally used to identify ownership of livestock, cattle brands can also serve a broader purpose in the modern marketplace. If your cattle brand is being used not just to mark livestock but to promote …
If you’re thinking about protecting your brand name, logo, slogan, or other distinctive mark, you’re likely considering a federal trademark. But once you file an application, who actually reviews it? The answer: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”). What is the USPTO? The USPTO is a federal agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce. It’s responsible for granting …
When we think about protecting a brand, trademarks like names, logos, and slogans often come to mind. But there’s another powerful and often overlooked form of intellectual property: trade dress. So, what exactly is trade dress, and why should businesses care about it? Trade Dress Defined Trade dress refers to the visual appearance of a product or its packaging that …
If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or creative professional, you’ve likely come across the term “USPTO.” But what exactly is it, and why is it important for protecting your brand and intellectual property? The United States Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”) is a federal agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce responsible for granting patents and registering trademarks. Its primary …
Whether you’re launching a new business, product, or service — or looking to strengthen the protection of an existing one — choosing the right trademark is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A trademark is more than just a name or logo; it’s the face of your brand, a legal asset, and a powerful tool to set you …
If you’ve ever looked closely at brand names, logos, or creative works, you’ve likely seen the symbols TM (™), SM (℠), Registered Trademark (®), and Copyright (©). While they all relate to intellectual property protection, they serve different legal purposes. Understanding these symbols can help businesses and creators protect their brands and works effectively. The Trademark (™) Symbol The TM …
When building a business, protecting your brand identity is essential. Two key legal tools for this protection are trademarks and service marks. While both serve to protect the uniqueness of your brand, they apply to different aspects of commerce. Understanding the distinction between the two can help you properly protect your intellectual property and avoid potential legal issues. Trademarks (TM) …
A trademark is a form of intellectual property that helps distinguish a business’s goods or services from those of others. Trademarks can be words, phrases, symbols, designs, or a combination of these elements that represent a brand. Trademarks provide legal protection, helping business owners ensure that only they have the exclusive right to use the mark in connection with their …
On February 27, 2025, FinCEN released a significant notice regarding the enforcement of Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) filing under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). The agency indicated that it will not enforce fines, penalties, or enforcement against companies for failing to file or update BOI reports (BOIR) by current deadlines. What This Means for Businesses If your business qualifies for BOI reporting under Corporate …
Businesses subject to the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) must now report Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) to FinCEN by March 21, 2025—an extension from the previous deadline. Key Updates January 7, 2025: A court ruling paused BOI reporting requirements. February 18, 2025: The stay was lifted, reinstating the requirements. FinCEN extended the compliance deadline to March 21, 2025 to allow businesses …