Intellectual Property
Trademarks
Trademarks (and Service marks) protect words, names, symbols, sounds, or colors used by a business to distinguish its goods and services from others, and may be used as an indicator of their source and/or quality. Generally, trademarks, unlike patents, exist as long as they are being properly used in commerce.
Trademark rights may exist without being registered with Federal or State government; however, a registered trademark is often afforded more rights and protections than an unregistered trademark. Trademarks used in interstate commerce may be registered under federal law. Trademarks used within Texas (regardless of whether they are used in interstate commerce) may be registered under state law.
Click here for information on filing an application for registration of a federal trademark with the USPTO.
Click here for information on filing an application for registration of a state trademark with the Texas Secretary of State. (Please note, it is advisable to consult with an attorney before registering a trademark.)
