This week on TMTelegramwe cover ... Tequila and why Trademarks with the word "tequila" or describing alcohol products as "tequila" could run into issues with the USPTO.
This edition is a 4-minute read.
TMTelegram Breakdown:
Congratulations to Our Clients: celebrate the latest newly registered Trademarks!
Starting a business? Set your brand up for success by asking these 7 questions.
Trademark Tips and Tricks: Do you have to renew your trademark? Let's find out.
TRADEMARK TRIUMPHS
Congratulations to these newly registered trademarks! 🎉
Every Tuesday, we receive a list of registered trademarks from the USPTO. Let's dive into some noteworthy trademarks from the batch dated October 17, 2023.
1. TICKHEX 7194227 - With your trademark secured, you can confidently provide pet owners with valuable products that help protect their furry companions from pests. We wish you continued success in the world of pet care! 🐾🐜🦴
2. VALUVALT 7194180 - Your brand is now protected and ready to offer secure storage solutions. Well done! 📦
3. WHISKEY 6 7192407 -Your brand is now protected, allowing you to offer captivating music theater tours, live musical performances, and a portal to connect audiences with musical artists. Congratulations!🎶🎭
We are so honored to work alongside dedicated clients such as these. You are protecting your brands one trademark at a time. Way to go! 🙌
Your trademark could be next! Reach out to the TLLF team today to explore the possibilities of applying for a new trademark. Excellence is our forte, and efficiency is our passion. Together, let's empower your brand to achieve remarkable success!
ASK AND ANSWER
Are you eager to embark on the journey of starting a business or creating your own brand but find yourself overwhelmed by the initial steps? Fret not; we've got your back.😎
Commencing a business venture can be quite a challenge, especially when you're navigating uncharted territory. Clarifying the purpose of your business is essential. It's crucial to start with a well-defined focus on the products or services you'll offer.
Before you dive into the world of trademarks and domain names, take a moment to identify where your business fits and make that your core objective:
Time-Saving Solution: Does your product or service save customers valuable time, making their lives more efficient and stress-free?
Supporting a Cause: Are you aligned with a meaningful cause or initiative? Supporting something larger than your business can resonate with customers who share those values.
Status Enhancement: Does your offering enhance your customers' status or image, making them feel like they're part of an exclusive club?
Knowledge and Learning: Does your business provide valuable insights, teach new skills, or offer educational resources that empower your customers?
Access to Information: Do you grant your customers exclusive access to information or resources that they can't find elsewhere?
Meeting Needs and Desires: Is your product or service designed to fulfill a specific need or desire in your target market?
Problem Solving: Does your business address a particular problem that your customers face, offering them a solution that eases their pain points?
Answering these questions can guide your business strategy, helping you cater to your customers' needs, desires, and motivations. By providing valuable solutions that align with these key factors, you're on the path to business success.
Now go start working and growing!
Maura LeMay
Get to know Maura LeMay, our dedicated Paralegal. Maura LeMay handles new trademark applications, trademark renewals, and responds to all client needs at the Trademark Lawyer Law Firm, PLLC.
Let’s dive into some fun facts about Maura!
I grew up in Buffalo, New York, down the road from the Bill Stadium, which made me a lifelong Buffalo Bills fan. 🏈
I love camping and swimming in lakes and any lake activity such as kayaking. 🏕️.
I enjoy watching my kids play sports. 👨👧👦
I enjoy traveling with my kids to sporting events and tournaments. ✈️
I have a rescue Pitbull, and my favorite pastime is going on hikes with him. 🐶
The trademark lawyer law firm truly specializes and experts in trademark services. Everybody was quick to response and very helpful. Who would have known trademark was so easy? Highly recommend them!! True Five Star!!
With that, we close this week's TMTelegram. Thank you for joining us again! We hope this edition brought your team just a step closer to success.
When you're ready to trademark your brand, you know who to call.
Thanks again and have a great week!
Warm regards,
J.J. Lee and the Trademark Lawyer Law Firm Team!
PS. Be Sure to Add Us to Your Contacts 📞
To ensure that you never miss an important update or exclusive offer from us, please add our email address to your contacts. This way, you can rest assured that our newsletters will always land safely in your inbox, ready to be explored.
"I have dealt with Trademark Lawyer Law Firm, PLLC, for several years. This time I needed to have my trademark renewed within a week as a deadline was approaching. As always, they prepared the paperwork professionally and in an expedited manner. Our communication to confirm details was smooth and quick. In a matter of days, they submitted the trademark renewal request. The service of this group of professionals is excellent." O. Garcia
Trademark Lawyer Law Firm
3300 Washtenaw Ave. 2nd Floor #277
Ann Arbor, MI 48104 (888) 505-5102
Suspensions are when your application is on hold. There are various reasons a trademark application can be suspended. However “likelihood of confusion” with prior application(s) filed and submission of foreign application are the most common reasons the USPTO may suspend an application. During a trademark suspension period, your lawyer will provide guidance on the next steps and whether it might be best to file an argument or pursue a coexistence agreement.
What are Disclaimers for Trademarks?
A disclaimer usually refers to a statement which indicates that you are not claiming exclusive rights to use the word(s) or a design element in your trademark application. A disclaimer allows for registration without creating a false impression of the registrant’s rights. A good example of this is disclaiming “café” if your services are for a café.
What is the Supplemental Registry?
If a trademark is not eligible for the Principal Registry, there is sometimes an option to register on the Supplemental Registry. In cases where the USPTO finds the trademark application is merely ornamental, merely descriptive, or primarily geographically descriptive, the USPTO may allow the application to be registered on the Supplemental Registry. However, over time, the mark may acquire distinctiveness and possibly become eligible for the Principal Registry.
What is the Date of First Use?
Two dates must be specified in a trademark application: Date of First Use Anywhere: The “anywhere” refers to use in the U.S. or elsewhere. This is the date the goods were first sold or transported, or the services were first rendered under the mark. The use must also have been bona fide and in the ordinary course of trade. Date of First Use in Commerce: This is the date when the goods were first sold or transported, or the services were first rendered under the mark in interstate or international commerce. The use of the mark must have been bona fide and in the ordinary course of trade.
What is the Renewal Timeframe for a Trademark?
The renewal timeframe for a trademark is between the 9th and 10th year anniversary of the trademark registration, and then in ten-year intervals. It is important to be aware that the USPTO also requires a registrant to provide an affidavit at the 5th and 6th years of ownership stating that the trademark is still being used in commerce. Failure to comply with the renewal timeframes or the affidavit requirements will result in the cancellation of the trademark registration.
Meet Your Team
J.J. Lee
Principal and Founder
Erin C. Bray
Trademark Attorney
Experienced Trademark Attorneys Committed to Protecting Your Brand
Founded by J.J. Lee, the Trademark Lawyer Law Firm, PLLC has successfully registered more than 6,500 trademarks with the USPTO. Dedicated to ensuring that your mark is protected from misuse or theft, our attorneys and staff work closely with clients, taking the time to understand the specific needs of their businesses. Professionally handling each matter with integrity, efficiency, and the personalized attention it deserves, you can rest assured that you have a team on your side who is committed to safeguarding your unique brand.