how do I Copy Right a name of a business?

Question

I am starting a business and want to copy right a name but I don't know how

Answer 1

You wouldn't copyright it. Copyrights can be obtained for things of an artistic nature. This includes, of course, poetry, films, sculptures, music, fiction, etc. But can also include things that may not necessarily seem "artistic" in the general sense of the word. Copyrights can also be obtained for advertising copy, games, software programs and blueprints, to name just a few.

To protect a business name within your industry, you would apply for a trademark.

Trademarks can be names of products or services, logos, slogans, packaging and even sounds and smells. In essence, a trademark can be almost anything that is used to identify a particular product or service. Registering a trademark grants the owner exclusive rights to the mark within the specified industry.

Of course, it's necessary to research the mark comprehensively prior to filing to ensure that there is no possibility of infringing upon another party.

This entails searching the pending & registered Federal and State trademark files as well as the US National Common-Law files. Then, if clear, you can decide if you would like to file for a Federal or a State trademark.

To register a trademark, it would either be through your Secretary of State for a State trademark or the US Patent & Trademark Office for a Federal trademark.

If you are only conducting business in one state, then a State trademark is most appropriate. If you conduct business in at least 2 states OR between the US & any other country, you can file for a Federal trademark.

Hope that helps! I wish you much success & happiness in all your ventures!

Answer 2

Look up Patent and Copyright lawyers in your area and set up an appointment. It normally costs from $400 to $2000 depending on the level, type, item, etc.

Don't do this yourself as you will mess it up and not be legally covered. Big corporations have specialized attorneys that only play w/ copyright, trademark,patent cause it can be vague at times by the law.

Answer 3

Call the State House.

Answer 4

You can't. But you may be able to trademark it. Patents and Copyrights probably has a web site with all the gory details.