Does an Online Store Automatically Count as “Interstate Commerce”?Attorney Advertising
You list your product on Shopify, Etsy, or your own WordPress site. Anyone with Wi‑Fi can click Buy Now. So, does that alone satisfy the “use in commerce” standard the USPTO requires for a federal trademark? The short answer: not quite. What the USPTO really wants to see For goods, the agency looks for actual sales or […]
Intent‑to‑Use vs. Use‑in‑Commerce: What’s the Big Difference? **Attorney Advertising**
You have a killer brand name, mocked‑up labels, and maybe a small batch of prototypes on your kitchen counter. You are not quite ready to ship, but you would hate for someone to grab your mark first. Should you wait until launch or file right now? In trademark lingo, the decision comes down to Intent‑to‑Use […]
Your Brand Name: Perfect Isn’t Required, But “Legally Available” Is Kind Of Important.
Alright, confession time: I start most mornings with Seth Godin’s daily email. They’re consistently thought-provoking, challenging conventional wisdom in the best way. His recent post, “The name doesn’t matter (that much),” really struck a chord – especially from where I sit in the world of intellectual property. Seth’s point is brilliant and, frankly, a relief […]
Before You Sue: Smart Alternatives to Trademark Litigation **Attorney Advertising**
You’ve just discovered someone using a trademark that’s uncomfortably similar to yours. Your first instinct might be to call a lawyer and file a lawsuit. But hold that thought; litigation should usually be your last resort, not your first response. There are several effective (and less costly) ways to handle trademark disputes before heading to […]
Post-Merger Integration: Don’t Let IP Fall Through the Cracks **Attorney Advertising**
The champagne’s been popped, the deal is signed, and two companies are now one. But while everyone’s celebrating the merger, there’s crucial work to be done – especially when it comes to intellectual property. Too often, companies discover IP integration hurdles months after closing, leading to costly complications and missed opportunities. Why IP Integration Matters […]
Can You Copyright a Font? The Complex World of Typeface Protection **Attorney Advertising**
In today’s digital age, fonts and typefaces play a crucial role in branding and design. But when it comes to protecting these valuable assets, many creators and businesses find themselves confused. Can you copyright a font? What about a typeface? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Understanding the Difference First, let’s clear […]
Common Law vs. Registered Trademarks: Is “Just Using It” Enough? **Attorney Advertising**
You’ve picked the perfect name for your business, designed a great logo, and started using them everywhere. That means you own the trademark, right? Well, yes and no. While using your trademark does give you some rights, relying solely on “common law” rights might leave your brand more vulnerable than you’d like. The Power of […]
Test It Before You Change It: The Power of Market Research in Trademark Overhauls **Attorney Advertising**
You’ve spent years building your brand. Now, in a burst of creative energy, your team has crafted what they believe is the perfect refresh. It’s modern, it’s sleek, and it captures your company’s evolving vision. But before you rush to unveil your shiny new trademark to the world, consider this: What if your customers hate […]
The AI Dilemma: Protecting Your IP in a World of Helpful Robots **Attorney Advertising**
Picture this: It’s a busy Tuesday afternoon. Your marketing team is crafting the perfect pitch for a new product. Sarah, your creative director, is stuck on a tagline. She turns to her new AI writing assistant, pastes in some product details, and asks for suggestions. In seconds, she has a catchy phrase that encapsulates your […]
“Help! Facebook Says My Page Is About to Be Deleted!” **Attorney Advertising**
You’ve been working hard on your business’s Facebook page, maybe even dipping your toes into the world of paid ads. Suddenly, you’re bombarded with alarming messages: “Warning! Your Facebook page is in violation of copyright and will soon be deleted!” Your heart races. Your palms sweat. Is all your hard work about to go down […]
