5 Benefits of Registering Your Trademark
Many business owners wonder if it is worth going through the trademark process, especially if they already own the domain name or have been operating under the mark for several years. Unfortunately, the registration of a domain name does not equate to trademark rights. Just because you have been using the mark without any previous issues, this does not guarantee protection from any future trademark infringement claims. If you still have doubts, here are five benefits of registering your trademark.
Proof of Ownership
Having a registered trademark on file provides the business owner with additional protection, including but not limited to presumed ownership of the trademark. Although unregistered marks may have some legal protection, it will be much harder to establish that you rightfully own the exclusive right to use the trademark ownership if someone else is using the same or similar mark.
Exclusive Right of Nationwide Use
A trademark registration gives you the exclusive right to use the trademark in association with the goods or services covered by the registration. The registration provides nationwide notice that you have the exclusive right to use the trademark and can prevent others from using the mark in bad faith.
Protects Against Potential Infringers
When your trademark can be found in the Trademark Office’s database, it discourages others from using confusingly similar marks. The Trademark Office has a duty to review new applications against prior trademark registrations and will refuse to register a new mark. Simply stated, the Trademark Office helps to prevent potential trademark infringement. U.S. Customs and Border Protection will also block the import of any goods that infringe on a previously registered trademark.
Protects Your Brand Identity
Trademark registrations grant the right to use the ® symbol when the mark is used for the goods and services covered by the registration. This places competitors on notice that you have taken the necessary steps to protect your brand as a whole.
Asset Protection
A valid trademark can be bought, sold, licensed, and used as security interest for obtaining a business loan. The more your business grows, so does the value of your brand. When you register your trademark, you are protecting your intellectual property assets.
IPS Legal Group, P.A. provides comprehensive trademark services including trademark searches, applications and filings, responses to office actions, opposition and cancellation proceedings, trademark portfolio management, and trademark litigation. We work hand-in-hand with business owners to properly protect their business and brand.
Disclaimer: This blog is not intended to be a substitute for legal advice or instruction. Every legal question calls for a different legal answer, and the above might not be applicable to your situation. Contact IPS Legal Group, P.A. today to discuss your unique intellectual property needs.
