Trademark Protection and Registration
What is trademark law? Trademark law protects the words, names, symbols, logos, and designs that identify and distinguish goods or services in the marketplace. Under federal law (the Lanham Act) and California state law, trademark owners can register their marks, prevent unauthorized use by competitors, and enforce their rights through cease-and-desist letters or litigation. Trademark protection begins with selecting a strong, distinctive mark and extends through federal or state registration, ongoing monitoring, and enforcement against infringement. Sasha Brodsky counsels businesses in Santa Cruz and throughout California on trademark selection, registration, protection, and enforcement as part of a comprehensive intellectual property strategy.
Trademark law protects the names, logos, and symbols that identify and distinguish your business in the marketplace. Sasha provides counsel on trademark selection, registration, protection, and enforcement.
Sasha's trademark practice is part of a broader suite of Intellectual Property services that includes copyright, trade secrets, and patent counsel. Contact Brodsky Law to discuss your trademark matter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trademark Law
How long does trademark registration take?
Federal trademark registration through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) typically takes 8 to 12 months if no issues arise, though the process can take longer if the examiner raises objections or third parties file oppositions. California state trademark registration is generally faster. An attorney can help prepare a strong application to minimize delays.
What is the difference between a trademark and a copyright?
A trademark protects brand identifiers — names, logos, and slogans that distinguish your goods or services in the marketplace. A copyright protects original creative works — books, music, art, software, and other authored content. Trademarks are registered through the USPTO, while copyrights are registered through the U.S. Copyright Office. A business may need both types of protection.