I registered a domain and was gonna use it for my online accounting software. But I checked google and found that there is an accounting firm name with the same name plus "ltd". Can I still use it? Can an offline business sue an online business for using the name? Also, we are also in different countries. Me, US and they UK.
Pick another name. Yes, an offline business can sue you. Yes, you can lose. Yes, it is a mistake if someone in the same industry is already using it. Save yourself the hassle and pick one of the other million names available.
Thanks for answering, I'll register a different name. One thing that still bug me is that any store not listed in the search engine can someday sue me? Just because they are not indexed by search engine, mean I am still liable for them too right? Another thing is did the internet change the whole business name playing field? I recall long ago that two similar small businesses in different states can co exist. Now, with the internet, I must make sure the names aren't in use even in different country right? And how do you people end up searching whether name are in use? I use google and yahoo. Is there anything better?
Cruise.co.uk, a British travel agent, has paid $1.1 million for the domain name cruises.co.uk. Code (markup): Maybe, they will have a good offer for your software Lets hope it. If you feel, that your company is enough strong, go for that. But if you are just starting to business then I would suggest you to pick another name, and do your marketing with the new name you chosen, but still keep the similar name active as well.
mhmtozek, then I'll keep it active too. I've already registered a new name, but don't like it now. I'll have to go back to thinking of something better.
After you have checked yahoo, google, uspto.gov, etc., a good trademark search service will give you a good idea of any potential problems. Expect to pay several hundred dollars - but it's still not a guarantee you won't have problems down the road.