February 2020

 
It has been a busy year in the world of trademarks, with lost of changes and developments from the USPTO like new regulations, updated forms, possible government fee increases, and more. In addition to working every day to protect client brands, we've been busy attending meetings, conferences, and more to keep up with the latest developments. We are always learning and bringing new knowledge into our practice to benefit our clients. The image below features badges from some of the many conferences I have attended or spoken at in recent years.


Even after more than 20 years in the field of trademark law, I am continuously learning and growing by attending conferences, speaking, mentoring, and participating in several trademark law organizations. As Benjamin Franklin said, "An investment in knowledge pays the best interest."



Help Spread the Word about Trademark Scamms

The scammers are still out there, and still prevalent. Help educate others by spreading the word about my new site:  www.isthisatrademarkscam.com.

Spreading the word is doubly valuable:
  • The more we help spread the word, the better chances people won't fall for the trademark scams, and maybe they'll go out of business eventually.
  • It helps the USPTO, DOJ, USPS, FTC, and other government agencies see the extent and scope of these scams, and the impact they are having on legitimate commerce and business.


Can you have too many trademarks?

  Watch this short video for my thoughts:

Can You Have Too Many Trademarks?



 
The Kobe Effect

Since the tragic death of Kobe Bryant, his daughter, and six others in a helicopter crash a few weeks ago, more than a dozen "Kobe" themed trademarks have been filed with the USPTO. Of course, most or all of these are unlikely to get approved as they fail to function as indication of source, create a false association, and/or are used ornamentally.


Any news or pop culture event these days tends to lead to a rash of trademark filings.


Erik will be speaking at the ALT Legal: Connect conference in Brooklyn, NY,  Mar 22 - 24, 2020, and the American Bar Association Spring IP law meeting in Washington, DC, April 1-3, 2020.



 
 
If there are any topics or issues you would like to see covered here, let us know!

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This publication has been prepared for the general information of clients and friends of the firm. It is not intended to provide legal advice with respect to any specific matter. Under rules applicable to the professional conduct of attorneys in various jurisdictions, it may be considered advertising material.

© 2020 Erik M. Pelton & Associates, PLLC. 
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.