How do you know what is trademarked and what isn't

Discussion in 'General Business' started by Sacredhoops, Aug 29, 2006.

  1. #1
    How do you know what is trademarked and what isn't? I mean if you see a website that has a certain name, can you take same name and add something to it, and call it yours? How do you know about trademarking?

    Thanks!
     
    Sacredhoops, Aug 29, 2006 IP
  2. jhmattern

    jhmattern Illustrious Member

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    #2
    Things don't have to be federally trademarked to have protections. Certain protections exist from state business name registrations, etc. as well, and there's a first use issue, the area where it's being used, what the scope of the use is, etc. Best to hire an attorney if you want a thorough search done. You can do a pretty general search just for federally registered trademarks though. Check out www.uspto.gov for information.

    Jenn
     
    jhmattern, Aug 29, 2006 IP