Q: can this trademark be used in another application?
We manufacture diamond cutting tools and would like to use the term xtreme cut in our branding for a product line.
a quick search shows the term as abandoned by a tool cutting fluid manufacturer. But a search for them shows the current use of the term on their products.
A:
You've already done the first things that I would do about this.
The next questions I would ask are what is the proposed product line and would that product line be a natural expansion for the cutting fluid manufacturer?
Don't try to answer those questions in this public forum.
I'm available for consultation. Contact me to learn my rate.
A:
In the realm of trademarks, the status "abandoned" can often be misleading. If a term is marked as abandoned, it means that at some point, the official registration process was not completed or maintained. However, this does not necessarily mean that the term is free for use by others, especially in the same or a similar industry.
You mentioned that the company previously associated with the term "Xtreme Cut" still uses it on their products. This is crucial because in trademark law, actual use in commerce can carry significant weight. If the term is being actively used, the company may have rights to it under common law, which could lead to legal challenges if you decide to use it for your diamond cutting tools.
Before proceeding with the use of "Xtreme Cut" for your product line, it would be wise to consult with a legal professional. They can provide a detailed analysis, considering the current usage by the other company and your intended use. They can also help navigate potential legal risks and suggest the best course of action to protect your interests while avoiding infringement.
Sean Goodwin and Alan Harrison agree 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.