Federal Trademark Registration FAQs

Names, logos, slogans, product packaging (trade dress), and even sounds or colors—if they uniquely identify your brand in commerce.

Typically 8 to 12 months, depending on the USPTO's review process and whether they issue any Office Actions.

The ® symbol is only for federally registered marks. Until registered, you can use the ™ symbol to indicate trademark rights.

If your mark is registered, the USPTO may refuse similar applications, and you can take legal action for infringement.

A full analysis that includes USPTO, state, and common law sources, identifying direct and indirect conflicts before you file.

USPTO search misses common law and unregistered trademarks that could still block or challenge your brand.

Federal (USPTO), state databases, business names, web domains, social media, and online marketplaces.

We provide an expert opinion on trademark risk, but for formal legal advice, we can refer you to a licensed trademark attorney.

Our service includes human legal review, identifying conceptual and phonetic similarities the USPTO would flag—something automated tools often miss.

It’s the ongoing process of tracking newly filed trademarks and uses that may conflict with your registered mark.

The USPTO doesn’t police your rights—you must enforce your trademark or risk losing it due to dilution or infringement.

We monitor on a weekly or monthly basis, depending on your plan, to catch potentially infringing marks early.

Yes, we send alerts for suspicious filings or uses, along with recommended next steps (e.g., cease & desist, opposition filing).

Yes. We can assist with enforcement strategies, and if needed, connect you with a U.S. trademark attorney for formal legal action.

A basic search only covers the USPTO database. A comprehensive search includes federal, state, and unregistered uses to identify broader risks.

Yes, but self-searches often miss similar-sounding or visually similar marks that USPTO examiners would reject.

No search can guarantee approval, but it significantly reduces your risk of rejection or infringement claims.

Our trademark search report is typically delivered within 2 to 3 business days.

We offer both standalone search services and bundled registration packages that include professional search and filing.

Yes. But registration is required to sue in court and claim statutory damages or attorney’s fees.

Books, music, videos, software, photographs, websites, and other original creative works.

Registration gives you legal proof of ownership, access to federal court, and enhanced enforcement rights.

For individual works: life of the author + 70 years. For works for hire: 95 years from publication or 120 from creation.

Typically, logos fall under trademark law, but if sufficiently creative, a logo may also qualify for copyright protection.

An official letter from the USPTO citing legal or procedural issues with your trademark application.

Yes. Many applications receive them. It’s a chance to clarify or correct issues—not an automatic rejection.

You have 3 months, with a one-time 3-month extension (for a fee). Missing the deadline abandons your application.

Your application may be refused or abandoned. A professional response increases your chances of approval.

Yes, but Office Actions often require legal reasoning and case law. Our experts ensure your response meets USPTO standards.