Geared toward business start-ups and new entrepreneurs, this program starts by identifying how trademarks, domain names, and business name registrations all differ. It explains why selecting a strong mark (one that is both federally registerable and legally protectable) is important. The program highlights why doing a complete search to avoid a likelihood of confusion is critical and whether an attorney should be used. You will learn about what may happen if another trademark owner believes they have stronger rights in a mark and sends a "cease-and-desist" letter.
Trademark basics also covers application filing issues and how to avoid "scams" of companies not affiliated with the USPTO. It concludes by discussing what happens after registration and the owner’s responsibility to enforce registration rights.
Craig Morris, U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Managing Attorney for Trademark Educational Outreach, will present and answer your questions.
Presented in part with the Silicon Valley USPTO.
Free. No registration required but encouraged.
Parking validation for 4th St. garage will be provided at the program.
The San Jose Public Library is a Patent and Trademark Resource Center (PTRC) that is part of a nationwide network of public, state, and academic libraries designated by the USPTO to support the public with trademark and patent assistance.