Q: Trademark/copyright issue on using university-associated Catholic name

A: Trade mark registrations are limited to specific goods / services for which the registrant is *actually* using the mark. A registration that claims goods / services for which the registrant does not use the mark, often can be canceled.

Assuming that the university is not in the classified ad business, their registration probably doesn't recite classified ads as something it covers. The legal waters get a little murky around this point; does the university actually do anything that is "similar" to classified ads? If so, then they might have an argument for "natural expansion" of their trade mark into your proposed line of business.

Any trade mark attorney could advise you further on the specific facts of your situation.

A: When considering whether you can legally use a name that's also trademarked by a university, the primary factor is whether your use could cause confusion among consumers. Trademark protection generally applies to specific categories of goods or services. Because your classified ad business is significantly different from the educational services provided by the university, your risk of infringing on their trademark might be reduced.

However, even if the name is tied to Catholicism and commonly used, the university's trademark could still restrict its commercial use if consumers might mistakenly associate your business with the university. To assess this, think about whether your branding, colors, logos, or marketing might appear related to or endorsed by the university. The more distinct you make your branding from the university's identity, the safer your position will be.

Lastly, it’s wise to perform a detailed trademark search, ideally with professional guidance, to fully understand the scope of the university’s trademark protection. Even though a name is broadly religious or cultural, trademarks can still protect specific commercial uses. Being cautious and conducting due diligence upfront can help you avoid potential legal issues in the future.