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Trademarks Give You Rights.
Greetings!
Many small business owners tell us that they waited too long to register their trademark because they didn't think they needed one. While it's true that you do not need to register your trademark to have rights, it makes it exponentially easier to enforce those rights if you do register.
Registration gives notice of your ownership of the mark, creates a legal presumption that you own it, and can act to prevent the unauthorized use of the trademark. Federal registration prevents others from using the mark or, if they do use it, from expanding with it. Without registration, another business can register your mark and prevent your expansion by confining your use of it to your region.
Trademarks are typically synonymous with your brand and how customers perceive your products. They speak to the quality and reputation of your work, and essentially act as a guarantee that you will live up to the customer's expectations of your business.
The old adage an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure could not be truer when it comes to registering your trademark. The likelihood of a problem may seem small, but the consequences are too enormous to ignore. If someone else registers and you infringe on their mark, you may be ordered to rename your company immediately and give up all profits earned by the use of the unregistered mark, and pay other damages, including punitive damages, fines, and attorneys' fees.
Trademark registration is fairly inexpensive and can go a long way in protecting your brand and business. For more details, click here to learn how you can protect your brand today.
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Questions from our customers:
What is a trademark?
A trademark includes any word, name, symbol, or device, or any combination, used, or intended to be used, in commerce to identify and distinguish the goods of one manufacturer or seller from goods manufactured or sold by others, and to indicate the source of the goods. In short, a trademark is a brand name.
How long does it take for a mark to be registered?
It is difficult to predict how long it will take for an application to mature into a registration, because there are so many factors that can affect the process. You should receive a response from the Office within six to seven months from filing the application. However, the total time for an application to be processed may be anywhere from almost a year to several years, depending on the basis for filing, and the legal issues which may arise in the examination of the application.
How long does trademark protection last?
Unlike copyrights and patents, trademark rights can last indefinitely as long as the owner continues to use the mark to identify its goods or services. The term of a federal trademark is 10 years, with 10-year renewal terms. However, the USPTO requires that between the fifth and sixth year after the date of registration, the registrant must file an affidavit stating that the mark is still in use or the registration is cancelled.
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Business Highlight: Camarillo Pool Service
Bobby Keller got started in the pool industry when he was in high school. He worked in the summers with pool companies to earn extra money and keep busy. He learned a lot about the industry and came to really enjoy his work. In 2003, Bobby started his own pool service and repair company. In 2007, Bobby wanted to take it a step further and acquired Camarillo Pool Service, a business that was established in 1983. With a focus on customer service, Camarillo Pool Service prides themselves on providing customers with highly qualified staff and personal service. They are locally owned and operated, so they are in tune with the needs and desires of customers in the region.
What makes Camarillo Pool Service unique? Providing good service means taking the time to listen. The team at Camarillo Pool Service works with their customers every step of the way to make sure they receive the services they need. Their tip to new business owners: To remain a business that is client-oriented, and to maintain strict operating procedures - paying attention to client needs.
Bobby's tip for new businesses: Make sure you are always willing and able to do the work yourself! As the owner of a business, you need to commit yourself to your business and it's success. |
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...and for a limited time, you'll also receive a free Quickbooks Simple Start & $50 trademark application.
We're the experts in small business. You focus on your business and we'll help you make sure your business and your assets are protected.
MyCorporation - Entrepreneurs Welcome. HURRY - OFFER ENDS SOON! |
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MyCorporation's CEO, Deborah Sweeney, was recently interviewed live by technology expert, Jeff Levy on the Digital Doctor. Deborah discussed the benefits of incorporating & the opportunity for small businesses to save on taxes and protect personal assets.
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We know that many of our customers need help with issues involving accounting and taxes. At no cost to you, we can help you find a qualified Accountant that understands your business.
CLICK HERE TO FIND AN ACCOUNTANT TODAY! Questions?: Call our friendly & helpful team at 888-MyCorp-8. |
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