I am making business cards because I am a Notary. Can I use the Great Seal of the State of California as the logo on my business card? I was told I can, then I was told I have to ask the State of California??? How? Please help.
Thanks
2007-04-22 15:12:22 · 4 answers · asked by Anonymous in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
It is illegal to use the Great Seal for commercial purposes. (Gov. Code sec. 402, subd. (a).) Unless there is some special exemption for notaries (and I did not find any on quick research) I'd say don't do it.
2007-04-24 13:08:27 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
The safest is to ask the State of California for permission. Most logoes are protected by patent and trade mark laws. As a Notary, you do not want to infringe other people's trade mark right. To play it safe, ask for permission or go to the Patent Office to find out whether or not the logo is a registered trade mark.
2007-04-22 22:43:12 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Unless you work for the State of California, you shouldn't use the seal. Its confusing. Maybe use the outline shape of California State as a background with your information printed over it.
2007-04-24 14:08:45 · answer #3 · answered by germaine_87313 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would say ask, you dont' want to get into a lot of trouble and be sued. As soon as you right something it has automatic copyright, you don't have to apply to get it.
2007-04-22 22:16:47 · answer #4 · answered by pinkjessy 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋