At Littlejohn Law Offices, we don’t just file paperwork; we build legal fortresses around your creativity and innovation. Whether you are a tech founder in the Research Triangle or a creative entrepreneur scaling your brand, our IP services ensure your legacy is protected from day one.
1. Comprehensive Trademark Searches
Before you spend thousands on branding, signage, and marketing, you need to know if you actually own the name.
- Beyond the Basics: We perform “Knockout” and Comprehensive searches that look beyond the USPTO database to common law and state-level filings.
- Risk Assessment: You receive a detailed legal opinion on the “likelihood of confusion” and the strength of your mark before you file.
2. Federal Trademark Registration
We handle the complex USPTO application process from start to finish.
- Strategic Classification: Proper “Class” selection is vital for protection. We ensure your application is drafted to provide the broadest possible shield for your goods and services.
- Application Management: We monitor your mark throughout the 8–12 month USPTO review process, keeping you updated every step of the way.
3. USPTO Office Action Responses
Has your trademark application hit a roadblock? A “Refusal” from an Examining Attorney isn’t the end of the road—it’s where our expertise shines.
- Substantive Responses: We draft legal arguments to overcome refusals based on “Likelihood of Confusion” or “Descriptiveness.”
- Procedural Fixes: We handle minor corrections, disclaimers, and specimen issues to get your application back on track.
4. Federal Copyright Filings
While trademarks protect your brand name, copyrights protect your work. We assist creators in securing federal registration for:
- Digital Assets: Software code, website content, and blog series.
- Creative Works: Manuscripts, photography, and graphic designs.
- Business Assets: Training manuals and proprietary course materials.
Trademark Services
Offering Trademark Services Nationwide
A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol, or design that identifies and distinguishes the source of one party’s goods from those of others. Essentially, your trademark distinguishes your “brand” from other brands. The rights in trademarks come from actual “use” therefore a trademark can last forever, as long as the mark is in use.
No matter where you reside in the country, you need a firm experienced in federal law to assist you with your trademark application, as the process of filing and receiving a registration for a trademark can be complicated. At Littlejohn Law Offices, we make protecting your brand simple. Our services also include responses to trademark office actions/ refusals and trademark licensing. We are located Durham, NC and work with clients nationwide!
Frequently Asked Questions
Should you hire a trademark attorney?
The short answer is YES!!!
Hiring a trademark attorney greatly increases your chances of successful registration of your trademark
The U.S. Trademark Office strongly recommends that you hire a trademark counsel to file your trademark.
According to the United States Trademark Office there are four main reasons to hire a trademark attorney
- An attorney can provide critical legal advice concerning your trademark application
- An attorney can conduct a trademark clearance search to determine if your business name is the same or very similar to another business name. A similar business name to another business could constitute possible trademark infringement.
- An attorney can assist you in enforcing and maintaining your trademark rights
- An attorney can represent you if you decide to file an appeal if your application receives a refusal(office action)
What is a trademark and why should I want one?
A trademark Is a word, phrase, symbol or design that identifies and distinguishes the source of goods of one party from those of others. Examples of trademarks include the Coca-Cola, McDonald’s and Nike logos. Or a company name like Starbucks or Delta Airlines.
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- A trademark is a valuable business asset and can appreciate over time.
- Is a great marketing tool to distinguish your company from another company.
- Protects your business from copycats
- Allows your brand to expand as a trademark provides nationwide protection.
How long does a trademark last?
A registered trademark can potentially last forever, as long as the trademark is in use by your business. Once the trademark is registered, there are certain maintenance filing requirements that must be met to ensure your mark maintains its registration.
How long is the registration process?
The registration process can last anywhere from 8-12 months, sometimes longer depending on if there are backlogs at the USPTO and if there are no issues with the application.
Can I use the ® symbol prior to registration?
No, you cannot use the ®(circle “R”) symbol prior to registration. The symbol can only be used when your application is officially registered.
To learn how we can assist your trademark filings, contact us at 919-697-8045, or visit our Durham or Raleigh, NC, location today!
TRADEMARK VS. COPYRIGHT
2216 S Miami Blvd #201
Durham, NC 27703
