Should you protect your mark?
If you currently use a tradename or mark, which identifies goods or services provided or sold by you, it is a prudent idea to protect your mark. Without protection, your mark is subject to infringement. Reed Law Firm is able to assist you with obtaining the following trademark registrations:
- State
- Federal
- International
Washington State Trademark Protection:
Washington State affords trademark protection for qualified trademarks pursuant to the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 19.77. The Secretary of State processes trademark reservations and registrations.
Federal (USPTO) Trademark Protection:
Federal law provides trademark protection in the United States. Federal trademark registration is processed by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). Such protection includes:
- constructive notice to the public of your claim to ownership in the mark;
- legal presumption of your ownership of the mark and exclusive right to use it throughout the United States;
- if your mark is infringed, you may bring an action in federal court;
- you can use your US registration to obtain international registration for protection in foreign countries, which will reduce your international fee.
International Trademark:
International trademark protection is available by application through the USPTO and with the International Bureau of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The Madrid Protocol has been signed by 61 countries, including the United States, thereby affording trademark protection in those countries. You can access a complete list of member states at http://wipo.int/madrid/en/members/.
If you need help with registering your trademark, please do not hesitate to contact the Reed Law Firm for a consultation at 425.943.7640.
