A trademark can be any word, name, symbol, or any combination thereof used to identify and distinguish the goods or services of one seller from those of another. Registration of a logo is not a legal requirement, but if you own a small business, you absolutely should register your logo with the help of an experienced Daytona Beach trademark lawyer. Trademark registration is important and provides your business with some distinct advantages.

You have some legal rights regarding your logo even if it’s not registered. However, when you register a trademark, you create an official public record of your ownership of that mark, and you gain the right to its exclusive use, the right to protect it in federal court if necessary, and a listing in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s online database. Before registering your trademark, let a small business lawyer conduct a search to determine if a similar brand is already being used. Applying to register your logo is a lengthy and confusing process – it can take more than a year – that should be handled by your small business attorney. Provided that you submit all maintenance and renewal documents in a timely manner, your logo registration remains valid.

If your logo is registered, and you believe that someone is using it without your permission, contact an experienced Daytona Beach small business lawyer immediately. Trademark infringement constitutes grounds for legal action. Someone may base or model their brand upon yours, but it must be designed in such a way that there should be no chance of confusion. If the new mark causes any confusion whatsoever, its creator may be liable for logo infringement. Have your trademark registered, starting now. A small business lawyer can also answer your questions about – and help you obtain – international brand protection. Don’t wait. Contact an experienced Daytona Beach small business lawyer as quickly as possible about trademark protection and the other legal services that your small business needs.