The following is an edited transcript of my podcast episode What are the Main Benefits of Trademark Registration?
Frequent questions we get asked include “Why should I register my trademark?” and “I’ve been using it for several years already and never had a problem. Why should I register it now?” Here are the top five reasons to register a trademark.
- A registered trademark appears in the USPTO’s database. This is important because other businesses are searching that database when they’re coming up with potential names and looking for conflicts. It’s also important because the USPTO examiners search that database when they review new applications, and they may actually do the work for you blocking applications in the future that are confusingly similar.
- A registered trademark provides benefits in court. It provides a presumption of validity and ownership of the trademark, and it provides additional avenues to get damages, which can be important in the event of any litigation or dispute.
- A registered trademark generally makes it easier to resolve disputes. It shows investment in the brand, and it makes for a much stronger letter when sent to a copycat or infringer. We find that most of the time it makes those disputes get resolved more quickly, more easily, and more cost-effectively.
- A registered trademark shows the world that your brand is protected and important to you. It shows it to your customers, your competitors, and your employees, and that is invaluable.
- A registered trademark turns your brand into a tangible asset. It can be licensed, sold, and/or assigned an actual value. It can even be used as a security interest with a bank. That adds value to your business if you’re going to ever have investors or partnerships or someday sell the business.
For more, explore https://www.erikpelton.com/services/trademark-registration/
