Q: I would like to use a name for my company that already appears to be trademarked,
but the other company is in a totally different industry and isn't famous. Is it ok to still use that name?
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A: The basic rule is that they can't be "substantially similar," I'd need to evaluate the industries and the mark to give you a better opinion / insight. You can of course always reach out to the company that is using it and explain your intent to use and how you don't believe it would violate their rights, they may ask for some consideration in exchange for an agreement for concurrent use, but that's money well spent if it avoids litigation down the road or having to fight for the name via the Trademark Trials and Appeals Board.
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