7 trademark registration pitfalls to avoid
For businesses and brand owners, registering a trademark is a crucial step in safeguarding their brand identity and ensuring that their intellectual property remains safe and secure. However, the trademark registration process can be complex, and costly mistakes may happen, which may affect the brand’s legal protection, hinder its uniqueness, and confuse consumers, negatively impacting its reputation and success. To navigate this process successfully, here are some common errors to avoid when registering a trademark.
Not taking legal consultation
One of the most significant mistakes one can make is trying to register a trademark without legal counsel. The first thing one must do when registering trademarks is consult an experienced attorney who can guide them through this complex process, provide the necessary guidance, and prevent future pitfalls.
Not making a unique trademark
When registering a trademark, the first thing to do is to ensure that it is unique to the brand. Failing to do so might lead to rejection during the registration process. An expert trademark attorney can also help in creating a unique trademark.
Not doing complete research about similar trademarks
It is also important to conduct thorough research to ensure that a trademark does not conflict with existing, similar trademarks. If it does, they may face legal challenges in the application process.
Not choosing the accurate trademark class
Choosing the wrong trademark class for a product can also lead to legal troubles and even a rejection of the application. Hence, one must ensure that their trademark is properly classified to cover all the relevant aspects of their brand.
Not tracking the application
The trademark registration application is not a seamless one. Even after the application is submitted, one might receive updates and Office actions (responses from the trademark office pointing out issues regarding an application) from the USPTO. Therefore, one should keep track of the application and promptly respond to requests or actions.
Not using the trademark symbol correctly
One must know the difference between the commonly used trademark symbols to use them correctly. For instance, the TM (™) symbol indicates that the trademark application is still in process, while the R (®) symbol indicates that the application is approved and the trademark is registered.
Not maximizing the trademark benefits
Registering a trademark provides businesses numerous advantages, including legal protection and improved brand reputation and recognition. Hence, once a trademark has been registered, one must leverage its value in brand marketing.
