Library

Understanding Trademark “Use in Commerce”

When it comes to trademarks, the concept might seem abstract until you take a closer look at everyday items. Pick up a piece of pottery, glassware, or even your trusty desk tumbler, and you’ll likely find a trademark subtly imprinted on the bottom—think Tiffany®, Waterford®, or Yeti®. These marks might not be front and center, … Read more

Trademark Risk Assessment: Clearing a Mark with Confidence

In today’s fast-paced world, consumers expect instant results—whether it’s food delivered within the hour or same-day shipping from Amazon. Businesses must keep up, and that includes the legal industry. However, when it comes to government services like trademark registration, speed isn’t always guaranteed. Evolution of the USPTO The U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO) has … Read more

Beware of the Copyright Trolls

Imagine opening your inbox to find an email like this: “My name is Jennifer Doe from Doe Law Office. Your website or a site you host is infringing on copyright-protected images owned by my client. Please view the links to my client’s images used on www.yourwebsitehere.com, along with evidence of their established copyrights…” The email might … Read more

Litigation & Your Mark: Navigating the TTAB

As a trademark attorney, much of my work involves the administrative side of securing and maintaining trademark registrations. But when it comes to truly protecting a client’s brand, litigation often becomes necessary. While trademark enforcement might not have the courtroom drama of Law & Order®, it’s vital to ensuring your brand remains uniquely yours. While some … Read more

Someone to watch Over (Your marks)

The Internet gives us incredible power to research anything, anytime. Ever Googled your own name? You might be surprised at what pops up—old addresses, past jobs, even other people with the same name. While sharing your name with others is usually harmless, it’s a different story when it comes to your business. That’s why you … Read more

Safeguard Your Brand with Copyright Protection

As a business owner, you’ve invested time and creativity into your brand’s design. From logos that tell your story to visuals that capture your essence, your brand is more than just an icon—it’s a reflection of your business’s identity. Sometimes, these designs take on a life of their own, becoming symbols that resonate with your … Read more

I Got an Office Action—Now What?

You’ve filed your application to register your trademark, navigating the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office’s DIY resources with the help of their videos and pop-ups. For some, this straightforward path leads to a smooth registration. But for many, an Office Action from the Examiner is the next step—often a request for more information, a technical … Read more