The trademark application process can never be easy for a business owner. It is a complex process that demands minute attention to detail. You should hire a respected trademark registration agency to make this process uncomplicated. Skilled experts possess sophisticated tools and strategies to streamline this process. You can anticipate custom-tailored plans from them. Grasp these vital concepts before pursuing a trademark in the USA.
Adopt a structured method
To successfully register a trademark in USA, it is important to adopt a structured method. A systematic strategy allows you to navigate various stages and address challenges effectively. Let’s explore these stages to enable you to make knowledgeable choices.
Initiating a search is vital
The primary step is conducting a detailed search. You should complete this task before preparing and submitting your application. A reputable USA trademark agency will conduct this search online with advanced tools and sources. Contact them with your desired trademark, along with a list of relevant goods or services. They will perform a complimentary trademark search on your behalf. Never underestimate the importance of research when you plan to register a trademark USA.
Filing your application
To commence your trademark application, you need to provide a trademark name. Additionally, you must include an image of your trademark logo. Your name and address are also necessary. Never forget to attach information about your products/services. An exact list isn’t required; a simple description in your own words will work. If your application claims priority from a corresponding foreign trademark application, be sure to submit the filing date, application number, and country of the original filing. Professional agencies specializing in US trademark search and registration will submit your trademark online.
What happens next?
The USPTO is the governing body for trademark applications. You can expect to receive an official filing receipt within a few days. The maximum duration for this process is four days. The date and application number will be included in this email.
Application review
Your trademark application in the USA will be assessed carefully by the USPTO. How does it review your application? The evaluation is conducted on two primary criteria. Let us break down these two aspects.
Evaluation on relative grounds
The USPTO will perform a thorough search to identify any similarities with pre-existing trademarks. They will send a notification if your trademark resembles an already registered one. Do not be overly concerned about a flat rejection of your application solely due to similarities. How can you circumvent unnecessary complications? The solution is to consult a reliable agency to register a trademark in USA. Experienced professionals will meticulously prepare and submit the application to expedite the evaluation process.
Assessment on absolute grounds
Before granting trademark registration in the USA, examiners will determine whether the trademark is excessively descriptive or lacks uniqueness. They will also evaluate if your mark is offensive or unethical. Be ready for potential follow-up inquiries. Occasionally, applicants might not specify their goods/services clearly. Therefore, you might be required to clarify them accurately. What happens when another person raises an objection during the review process? The USPTO authorities or the examiner will ask for further clarifications. You can sidestep objections with a thorough US trademark search conducted under the guidance of a professional agency.
Publication of the application
Once the evaluation phase is complete, your application will be published in the online Trademark Journal. During a four-month timeframe, third parties can submit an opposition based on prior registered or unregistered claims. The most common reason for opposition is confusion with a previously filed or registered trademark. Other bases include descriptiveness and bad faith. Approximately 5% of all applications receive opposition, so this should not overly alarm you. Professional expertise can help you register a trademark USA without unwarranted objections.
Addressing issues without formal opposition
If there is a concern from a third party, they will generally attempt to extend the opposition period by one month and seek to resolve the issue amicably. In several cases, oppositions can be settled with straightforward modifications to the goods/services. Many disputes are resolved without progressing to formal opposition.
Concluding the registration process
Two weeks following the publication, the USPTO will issue an electronic registration certificate. Physical certificates are no longer distributed. Authorities will send you the electronic copy via email. If you apply to register a trademark in USA through an agency, the agency will receive the email and forward it to you. The registration certificate contains the registration details and dates.
Conclusion
The optimal choice for applying for a trademark is to enlist the assistance of a specialized agency. Trademark Angel is a reputable agency with an exceptional history of success. This service provider will handle all responsibilities on your behalf with great care. You can anticipate swift outcomes. The skilled experts of this agency prioritize making their services economical to meet the needs of the largest possible clientele.
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