A History Of Innovation, A History Of Results
A History Of Innovation, A History Of Results
For many companies, their brand is their most valuable asset. As businesses become increasingly global, it is essential to develop intellectual property protection strategies that safeguard brand names and marks worldwide.
At WHGC, P.L.C., our trademark attorneys develop global trademark strategies that protect the integrity of our clients’ brands, secure their competitive advantage, and help prevent brand dilution. We help clients procure, monitor, and enforce trademarks in California, across the United States, and abroad.
The world is becoming smaller. Every IP strategy must consider international opportunities and challenges. Contact our firm to develop a global trademark strategy that protects your brand worldwide.
Most people have heard of a trademark and understand that having one is important, but many do not fully understand what a trademark is or how it functions. It is important for entrepreneurs and business owners to understand their rights under U.S. trademark law.
A trademark can be a symbol, word, figure, phrase, design, or expression used to claim exclusive rights in connection with products or services. In short, a trademark distinguishes one company’s products or services from others and gives the owner protected proprietary rights. Trademarks may appear on products, packaging, labels, websites, and marketing materials. Commonly recognized trademarks include Nike’s swoosh and Coca-Cola’s red ribbon lettering.
Many companies operate as trademark licensees. For example, Lego is allowed to produce Star Wars-themed toys because it has purchased a license from Lucasfilm. If Lego used the Star Wars trademark without permission, Lucasfilm could bring an infringement claim.
TM – The superscript “TM” is used for unregistered trademarks associated with goods.
SM – The superscript “SM” is used for unregistered service marks associated with services.
® – The “R” in a circle is used only for registered trademarks and should not be confused with the copyright symbol.
To learn more, watch the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office video, “Basic Facts about Trademarks: What Every Small Business Should Know Now, Not Later.”
Brand marks, logos, and slogans communicate the source of a product and promise a certain level of quality to consumers. When trademarks are infringed upon or illegally reproduced, consumer trust and corporate goodwill can suffer.
Securing a trademark is only the first step. At WHGC, our intellectual property team uses advanced portfolio management tools and works with a trusted global network of law firms to monitor, enforce, and protect our clients’ trademark rights worldwide.
In addition to prosecution, monitoring, and portfolio management, our trademark services include:
Trademark enforcement
Trademark searches and clearance
Brand strategy counseling
U.S. Trademark Trial and Appeal Board cancellation and opposition proceedings
Trademark licensing and assignments
WHGC represents U.S.-based companies entering the Chinese market and Chinese companies entering the U.S. market. In both cases, success requires a deep understanding of U.S. and Chinese intellectual property laws, along with cultural and procedural nuances. Our team guides clients through both legal systems to build international trademark strategies that protect brands worldwide.
Contact WHGC to discuss protecting your trademarks internationally and developing a global brand protection strategy.
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