Q: how do I know if an image/logo is trademarked?
i work at a bar, and created an image of ohio using the logos of the breweries in ohio. i want to be allowed to sell the image on shirts but dont know how to go about doing so. i do not know how to find if images are copyrighted or trademarked and therefore am unsure about my next step. any help is appreciated, thank you
A: The only way is to conduct an image search via the USPTO's database of registered trademarks. Images are a bit tougher to research than word marks, because there's a bit of subjective interpretation in the description of the designs and their potential similarity to other registered marks. With that said, an experienced attorney can help perform these services and get your mark registered. If you'd like additional info, you can email me at: Jason@altviewlawgroup.com for help.
John Espinosa agrees with this answer
A: Whether or not the various breweries have registered their trademarks or copyrights in those logos, they still own all the rights in those logos, both trademark and copyright, with the right to control all uses of them. You would have to obtain written permission from every owner to avoid problems. Otherwise, your unauthorized reproduction on shirts would be both a trademark and a copyright infringement, exposing you to legal action and monetary damages. Use the Find a Lawyer tab to consult a local intellectual property attorney before doing anything.
John Espinosa agrees with this answer
Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.
The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.
Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.
