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Trademark Guide
What Is Trademark Registration? A Guide for Creators & Business Owners
Trademark registration gives you the legal right to exclusively use your brand name, logo, or slogan in commerce. For business owners, it is the difference between a brand you own and one that can be copied.
Key Points
- 1A trademark protects brand identifiers — your business name, logo, tagline — not the underlying product or creative work.
- 2Federal registration gives you nationwide priority from the date of filing.
- 3Without registration, your rights are limited to the geographic area where you actually use the mark.
- 4Trademarks are filed by class — there are 45 USPTO trademark classes covering different industries.
- 5The ® symbol can only be used after federal registration. Using TM marks your claim before registration.
- 6An experienced trademark attorney can conduct clearance searches, file your application, and respond to office actions.
Trademark registration is one of the most valuable legal steps a growing business can take. An experienced trademark attorney can guide you through the process and help you avoid common mistakes.