Trademark 101, choose a good business or product name and registration explained (Legal Road Map® Podcast S1E6)

How can you create the most value in your brand? Start by choosing a great company or product name, then check to make sure no one else is already using it. Plus learn why a federal trademark registration could help your business.

(Be sure to listen to Episode 5 first for an overview of the different kinds of IP; Episode 6 builds on Episode 5).

Episode highlights:

  • What kinds of brand and company names make the best trademarks? Fanciful, arbitrary, suggestive, descriptive and generic marks explained.
  • How can you search to see if a trademark is already being used?
  • Is checking for domain name availability good enough as a trademark search?
  • When does it make sense to register a trademark?
  • How does the federal trademark registration process work? Do you need to hire an attorney?
  • How long does a trademark registration last?
  • Should you use the ™ and ® symbols?

KEY TAKEAWAY: One of the easiest legal protections you can DIY is a thorough trademark search to be sure you’re not infringing anyone else’s rights, and are building value in a brand you can actually protect.

This podcast is information not legal advice specific to your situation.

Back to blog

Explore More Helpful Articles and Podcast Episodes

View all
  • Text Message Marketing Could Cost Your Business Millions - Here's How to Protect Yourself

    Text Message Marketing Could Cost Your Business Millions - Here's How to Protect Yourself

    SMS text message marketing can be an incredibly powerful tool for engaging customers and driving sales. But there’s a hidden risk: even a single text sent without proper compliance could cost your business $500 to $1,500 in fines. We're breaking down the essential legal steps you need to take to keep your SMS marketing strategy compliant and secure.

    Text Message Marketing Could Cost Your Business Millions - Here's How to Protect Yourself

    SMS text message marketing can be an incredibly powerful tool for engaging customers and driving sales. But there’s a hidden risk: even a single text sent without proper compliance could cost your business $500 to $1,500 in fines. We're breaking down the essential legal steps you need to take to keep your SMS marketing strategy compliant and secure.

  • Avoid FTC Fines: 7 Best Practices for Using Testimonials in Your Marketing

    Avoid FTC Fines: 7 Best Practices for Using Testimonials in Your Marketing

    Client testimonials are a powerful marketing tool, but they can also pose legal risks if not used correctly. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has strict rules regarding testimonials, especially when making claims about results. In this article, we cover key legal do’s and don’ts to help you use testimonials effectively while avoiding hefty fines and ensuring transparency with your audience.

    Avoid FTC Fines: 7 Best Practices for Using Testimonials in Your Marketing

    Client testimonials are a powerful marketing tool, but they can also pose legal risks if not used correctly. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has strict rules regarding testimonials, especially when making claims about results. In this article, we cover key legal do’s and don’ts to help you use testimonials effectively while avoiding hefty fines and ensuring transparency with your audience.

1 2
View all