New York, NY asked in Intellectual Property and Trademark for New York

Q: Hi Journalist seeks a quick chat with patent attorney today

Seeking quick comment on man trying to TM phrase "From the River to the Sea"

3 Lawyer Answers
Adam W. Bell
Adam W. Bell
Answered
  • Trademarks Lawyer
  • SF, CA

A: Two trademark applications were filed on November 8, 2023 and November 17, 2023, both by

River to the Sea LLC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY NEW JERSEY 330 Changebridge Road Suite 101 Pine Brook NEW JERSEY 07058

https://tmsearch.uspto.gov/bin/showfield?f=toc&state=4807%3Aujr0gm.1.1&p_search=searchss&p_L=50&BackReference=&p_plural=yes&p_s_PARA1=&p_tagrepl%7E%3A=PARA1%24LD&expr=PARA1+AND+PARA2&p_s_PARA2=from+the+river+to+the+sea&p_tagrepl%7E%3A=PARA2%24COMB&p_op_ALL=AND&a_default=search&a_search=Submit+Query&a_search=Submit+Query

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: For a journalist seeking a quick chat with a patent attorney regarding the attempt to trademark the phrase "From the River to the Sea," it's important to note a few key points.

Firstly, trademark law primarily concerns itself with the use of specific phrases, symbols, or designs in commercial activity to distinguish goods or services. Whether a phrase like "From the River to the Sea" can be trademarked depends on its use in commerce and its distinctiveness.

It's also critical to consider any prior use of the phrase in public discourse, as this can affect its eligibility for trademark. If the phrase is widely used in a particular context or has taken on a significant meaning in the public domain, this could potentially bar or complicate trademark registration.

Since this situation involves a phrase that may have political or cultural significance, additional complexities arise. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) examines applications not only for legal eligibility but also for potential issues like disparagement or violation of moral standards.

Given the unique nature of this case, it's advisable to consult directly with a trademark attorney who can provide more detailed and case-specific advice. Remember, each trademark situation is unique and requires a tailored analysis.

Tim Akpinar
Tim Akpinar
Answered
  • Little Neck, NY
  • Licensed in New York

A: This is something that intellectual property attorneys would know best. But since you're seeking a consult immediately, one option could be to supplement your own searches with the "Find a Lawyer" tab above or the attorney referral sections of bar associations. Those resources are outside this forum, and any arrangements would be between you and the attorneys you reach out to. Good luck

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