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
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
When you apply to register a trademark with the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office (USPTO), your application is published in the Official Gazette. This weekly digital publication alerts the public to all applications that have met the USPTO’s initial requirements. During this period, third parties have the chance to object to your application or request … Read more
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
Clients often ask if they really need an attorney to prepare their service contracts. After all, when you’re starting a business, cutting costs is a priority. With a wealth of online resources, it might seem easy to handle contracts yourself. Some clients turn to free templates from professional organizations, others rely on DIY legal services, … Read more
As a business owner, you’ve likely heard the advice to delegate and outsource, especially when it comes to managing social media. It sounds like a smart move—hire a freelancer, let them handle the content, and focus on running your business. But as one digital marketing expert put it, “Businesses think they can hire a freelancer … Read more
You open your email and see something from a lawyer—immediately, dread sets in. Thoughts race: Will this cost you your business? Do you need a lawyer? Are you about to be sued? The urge to ignore it is strong. Maybe it’s a scam, or it might just go away on its own. But ignoring it … Read more
You’ve discovered someone else using your name, brand, or copyrighted material. Naturally, your first instinct might be to reach out directly and ask them to stop. After all, why involve the time and expense of an attorney if a simple request could solve the problem? In some cases, especially if the offender is an individual, … Read more
Receiving a cease and desist letter or any other threatening message from an attorney representing a third party can be unsettling. It’s natural to feel hurt, fearful, or even angry when someone accuses you of infringement. However, as a seasoned intellectual property attorney, my perspective is different. When your mark catches the attention of another … Read more
Copyright trolls, often disguised as “image rights specialists,” are more interested in profit than in protecting photographers’ rights. These businesses thrive on scouring the internet for unauthorized image use, then swooping in with demands for hefty “licensing fees” and penalties. While there are genuine companies that responsibly license and enforce the rights of photographers and … Read more