Can i?
2007-01-01 07:07:43 · 5 answers · asked by dacarman4u@sbcglobal.net 2 in Business & Finance ➔ Small Business
Nothing is free. So check the fine print.
2007-01-01 07:21:52 · answer #1 · answered by Gone fishin' 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You wouldn't patent it. To protect an original invention OR a significant improvement to an existing product, a patent would be filed. Here's the USPTO's definition: http://www.uspto.gov/web/offices/pac/doc/general/index.html#patent
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.
No, it is not free. To register a trademark, that's done either 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 (OR are planning to 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!
2007-01-03 04:06:14 · answer #2 · answered by TM Express™ 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You can't patent a name. You may be able to copyright it.
Of course, it depends on what kind of name. Your personal name can't be copyrighted.
2007-01-01 07:15:11 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your site name? Your given name? Your pets name?
2007-01-01 07:12:00 · answer #4 · answered by pappy 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
no that is my cousins name
2007-01-01 07:16:13 · answer #5 · answered by Chris 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋