Q: What if I made a logo then someone else trademarks a similar logo. Do I have to stop using it or am I grandfathered in?
I’m working at a non-profit, not selling anything. Another person is selling something, doesn’t have a trademark, and asked us to stop using it. I’m sure she’s going to get a trademark. What would be our best course of action?
A: Trademark rights are acquired through use, so if you're selling goods or services in connection with that logo, you may be able to claim common law priority within certain geographic areas should someone later attempt to federally register a similar logo for related goods or services. However, if you were to file it with the USPTO then you may be able to claim superior rights under such a scenario. Should that be of interest, please feel free to call or email.
1 user found this answer helpful
A: If you are using the logo as your trademark, to indicate your organization as the source of the goods or services you provide, then you may have priority over someone who uses a confusingly similar logo. Consult with a trademark attorney to determine your specific rights. You may be able to oppose the registration of such a trademark.
1 user found this answer helpful
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.
