my company opened and is registered as Zen Press LLC in 2021 September in the state of VA. We have a storefront, website and instagram using that name as well. this new business is selling similar products under the name ZenPressed in Maryland which is in the DMV area October this year and also... View More 
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answered on Nov 17, 2023
In Virginia, even without a registered trademark, you may have common law rights to the business name "Zen Press LLC" based on your use of the name in commerce since 2021. These rights are typically limited to the geographical area where you operate and are known. The situation with the... View More
I understand that descriptive words are not allowed, like “bicycles” for bicycles. But if it’s a combination, such as Spoon la la - is that allowed? The brand would be selling utensils, napkins, plates, etc, and spoons is one of the items.
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answered on Aug 26, 2023
When descriptive words cannot be claimed exclusively, the addition of unrelated whimsical text (such as "la la") does serve to make a mark sufficiently distinctive that it may function as a source identifier. The mark could be made even more distinctive by using a unique font and/or graphic element.
IC 029 states "prepared meals consisting primarily of meat substitutes".. my product is plant-based snack consist of plant-based deli, cheese, and crackers (AKA Vegan Lunchables). So should I file a TEAS Plus with class 029 or TEAS Standard?
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answered on May 2, 2023
When deciding between TEAS Plus or Standard, it's important to consider the specificity of the description of goods and services in the application. If your product falls within the broader description of Class IC029, then you may be able to file for TEAS Plus. However, if your product does... View More
answered on Mar 25, 2023
To find out whether a trademark is registered for federal protection, you can search the US Patent and Trademark Office ("USPTO") database. However, keep in mind that, just because something isn't registered doesn't mean that it's available to be used. The US recognizes... View More
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answered on Mar 29, 2023
Using the word "Snoopy" in a business name could potentially infringe on the trademark rights of the Peanuts brand and its owner, which could result in legal action. While there may not be any direct reference to the character in the rest of your business, the use of a well-known... View More
I own an LLC and copyright application is active and in processing. I sell digital printable online and baked goods under VA Cottage Laws
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answered on Feb 25, 2023
Yes, you can send a cease and desist letter if someone has recreated your product and is selling it as their packaging without your permission. As the owner of the copyright, you have the right to control the use and distribution of your original work.
In the cease and desist letter, you... View More
Toys, Apparel, Video Games, Books, Puzzles, Board Games, CDs, Electronics, DVDs, Party Supplies.
answered on Dec 29, 2022
If you are referring to the process of applying for a federally registered trademark, it depends. Trademark protection can be granted for words, designs, etc., but the mark must be unique and suitable for registration. An attorney would need to know more about your use of "Tatsuro &... View More
answered on Jan 13, 2022
In theory, the answer is simple: no, you can't use the mark. However, there are other considerations. Let's assume you're referring to the mark at https://tmsearch.uspto.gov/bin/showfield?f=doc&state=4807:hzp18o.2.2
* Are your goods/services in the same class as the... View More
I want to sell something inspired by Harry Potter. The name 'Godric's Hollow' is not trademarked. It is mentioned in the books. Am I able to use this name and sell it?
answered on Dec 15, 2021
Maybe
Depends on how it is used
Consult with an attorney
answered on Jun 17, 2021
Maybe
You need to consult with an attorney to assess your risks
cheers
Hi, I have a small business which features original designs on t-shirts.
answered on May 6, 2021
As indicated a design patent can provide protection.
Depending on what you are doing you could file for other registrations depending again on what your creations are.
Consult with an attorney.
I am filing for a trademark with the USPTO to protect my company name. But we provide a particular service that I want to protect, as we are about to be nationwide soon. This service is what differentiates us from other companies similar to mine.
answered on Jan 25, 2021
A federal trademark application will be rejected for a business name standing alone (see TMEP 1202.01). A federal trademark/service mark registration must be directed to a mark that is used with some underlying goods/services (or is intended to be used with goods/services). It sounds as if a... View More
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answered on Dec 9, 2020
This is not legal advice. From my jurisdictions (California and Arizona), I don't normally see a fee demand with a cease and desist, although I do not believe there is anything improper about requesting a pursuit fee in the right case. See you at the top! Attorney Steve®
If one wanted to use it within the title of their own work. Is this a patent, trademark, or copyright issue?
answered on Aug 20, 2019
it depends on the classes they're using the mark for and the ones you're planning on using the mark for. If it's for the same goods/services and they've been using the mark longer, then it would be an issue. You should consult a trademark attorney.
answered on May 3, 2019
Usually, things printed on clothing are not considered identifiers of source. Trademark protects against source confusion, and frequently the things printed on clothing are considered ornamentation rather than suggestive of the quality or origin of the clothing itself. Nevertheless, you may be able... View More
They haven't trademarked the term but they have been established for at least 3 years– I just want to make sure I won't be in any legal trouble for using the same trade name despite being in a different category. Thank you!
answered on Sep 18, 2017
Even though the name is not federally registered, the owner may have common law rights to the name as a trademark. An attorney would need to review the how the term is being used, the proposed trademark, and possibly perform a trademark search to determine if the term is clear.
answered on Sep 1, 2017
To confidently answer your question, you need to commission a trademark search. There may be other marks that, while not identical, may be likely to be confused with your to your proposed mark.
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