What happens if you use someone else’s trademark?
In other words, any lies associated with your use of a competitor’s trademark could subject you up to a claim of trademark infringement or disparagement. Assuming that your statements about a competitor are true, however, trademark law does provide some degree of leeway to use registered marks, even without permission.
Can you sue if someone uses your trademark?
A trademark owner who believes its mark is being infringed may file a civil action (i.e., lawsuit) in either state court or federal court for trademark infringement, depending on the circumstances. However, in most cases, trademark owners choose to sue for infringement in federal court.
What happens if you use a trademark without permission?
United States law allows the holders of federally registered trademarks to sue others who use those marks without permission, when the use in question causes a “likelihood of confusion” to actual or potential customers.
What do you do if someone copies your trademark?
If you find that someone is using your trade mark without your consent, seek legal advice as soon as possible. In most cases, you will begin addressing infringement by sending a cease and desist letter to the infringer.
How long does a trademark last?
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 a name already in use but not trademarked?
If you’re wondering, “can you trademark something that already exists,” the simple answer is “no.” Generally speaking, if somebody has used a trademark before you, you can’t register the trademark for yourself.
Can a trademark be taken away?
The Loss of Trademark Rights
You can lose a trademark in a variety of ways. You can lose a mark through abandonment. A mark will be considered abandoned if you stop using it for three consecutive years and you have no intent to resume its use. You can also lose a mark through improper licensing or improper assignment.
Can I challenge a trademark?
You may challenge a trademark registration issued by the USPTO by filing a petition to cancel the registration with the Trademark Trial & Appeal Board (TTAB).
How much does a trademark lawsuit cost?
Typically, lawyers who handle trademark cases charge $250 per hour or more (especially in larger metropolitan areas). Full-blown trademark litigation can easily cost over $20,000, and that number can increase depending on the location of the litigation and the possibility of appeal.
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.
What do I do if someone is using my logo?
If the person or entity receives your letter and continues to use your trademark, it’s time to file a lawsuit. The suit will get filed in federal court if it spans more than one state. If the infringement is local, it may get filed in a state court.
How do you get around a trademark?
Here are five steps small business owners can follow to avoid a trademark infringement lawsuit:
- Do your research. Before you settle on a name, logo, or domain name, make sure it is not already trademarked. …
- Enlist help. …
- Consider general liability insurance. …
- Register your trademark.