Can a geographical name be used as a trademark?
GEOGRAPHIC TRADEMARKS AND THE TRADEMARK ACT
Section 2(e)(2) of the Trademark Act, 15 U.S.C. §1052(e)(2) explicitly prohibits the registration of trademarks on the Principal Register if the trademark is “primarily geographically descriptive” of the goods or services specified in the trademark application.
Can you trademark a map?
Yes, you can trademark a map. If you create a logo that is comprised of a map or an outline of a geographic area, and if you use the logo to sell or promote your products or services, then you may trademark the logo.
What names can be trademarked?
A phrase, word, symbol, device, or even a color are all eligible for a trademark. Anything that distinguishes the goods of your party or company from another qualifies. However, the item must be used in a commercial setting to obtain protection from the law. Trademarks have a 10-year protection span.
Who does a trademark protect?
A trademark or service mark promotes and protects your brand name, while a registered and protected domain name provides you protection against any unauthorized use of your domain name by any person or entity.
Do I have to trademark my logo?
You should consider registering Trademarks to protect any features that you use to identify your brand. Many businesses register a number of Trademarks, for example, one to protect their brand name, another to protect their logo and another one to protect a tagline.
Is slogan a trademark?
Trade Mark Applications are filed for registration of Slogan. Slogans are protected as trade mark under Section 2(m) and 2 (zb) of Trade Marks Act, 1999.
Do trademarks expire?
How long does a trademark last in the US? In the United States, a federal trademark can potentially last forever, but it has to be renewed every ten years. If the mark is still being used between the 5th and the 6th year after it was registered, then the registration can be renewed.
Can I trademark any word?
Phrases, words, symbols, sounds, and even colors are all eligible for trademark protection. Anything that identifies your brand and is used to distinguish your company or goods/services from other companies can be trademarked.
Can you trademark curse words?
The short answer is: no, you cannot trademark a “bad” word if it is scandalous, offensive, or immoral. U.S. trademark law absolutely bars trademarking words of immoral or scandalous matter.