If you have a solid business model in place and are running a successful company today, you may look back in amazement at the staggering amount of work that went into building that foundation—from deciding whether you would be a corporation or an LLC, what type of products and services you would offer, and where—to how many people you would need to hire, and how you would pay yourself and your partners in terms of salaries and profits. After that, the daily grind can become overwhelming with duties, some of which are incredibly challenging and some incredibly mundane, but necessary. With so much financial and sweat equity contributed over the years though, your brand should continue to grow into one that is well-established, as well as protected, with the help of a good business attorney.
Intellectual property law can be complex, but the basics are simple whether you need a copyright, patent, or trademark. While the first two elements of intellectual property law deal more with protecting works, concepts, or inventions, the trademark serves as a way to preserve your company’s brand. Most commonly, the trademark is used to protect a logo or a slogan, and it sets you apart from the competition. Think about some of the most famous companies in the world—from apparel to fast food to computers. It only takes a quick glance at a familiar symbol to recognize which products and services you are dealing with. These split-second moments of recognition are often unconscious in consumers but bring forth curiosity if they don’t know much about what a business offers or remind them of good or bad experiences they may have had—and sometimes repeatedly. A solid company is able to use a trademark or logo to continually allow themselves to be identified in a positive manner. The trademark does not ever expire and allows any brand to continue growing in recognition indefinitely.
The trademark is specific to the company that created the logo or slogan or more, and it cannot be used by others without permission, even if it is not registered; in fact, to do so is illegal and considered trademark infringement. This type of intellectual property can also be bought or sold or used under licensing agreements though.
If you have concerns about intellectual property or possible infringement, consult with Attorney Shane Coons. Our law office represents clients involved in a wide range of businesses and legal issues, and we would be glad to review your case and help you explore your options. Call now at 949-333-0900 or email us at Shane.Coons@seclawoffices.com.