If you're an entrepreneur, you know that protecting your intellectual property should be high on your list when it comes to safeguarding your company. However, as a successful business owner, you also know the steps and costs of filing a trademark in the U.S. can be expensive and arduous.
This conundrum can be even more overwhelming for new business owners who want to do everything possible to minimize the price of securing trademarks. They try to handle complicated tasks like trademark registration on their own, which can be a big mistake - especially when juggling the day-to-day tasks of running a business. You may be thinking, "But what about those set-it-and-forget-it services you can find online? All you have to do is plug in your info, and you're done." Using pre-made templates for trademark filing can be tempting, but doing so can leave you with inadequate protection and hurt you in the long run.
So, what is the easiest, most cost-effective route to consider that also minimizes legal risk? The truth is, before you spend money on an online filing service, it's best to consult with a trademark attorney working with clients in Whitby, Ontario.
At Sausser Summers, PC, our experienced trademark attorneys can help you understand the trademark process step by step. We can even help with U.S. trademark filing, U.S. trademark responses, and U.S. trademark renewals at a price you can actually afford. That way, you can make an informed decision regarding your business without having to break the bank.
Hiring an attorney can be a daunting task, but at Sausser Summers, PC, our goal is to make the process as simple and seamless as possible for you. That's why we offer a straightforward checkout service. First, you choose your flat fee trademark service and fill out a short questionnaire. Then, we will contact you within 24 hours to discuss the details of our service. From there, one of our experienced trademark attorneys will get to work on your behalf.
Using a trademark attorney for filing in Whitby, Ontario, can significantly increase your chances of a successful registration. The U.S. government recommends hiring a trademark attorney to help with your application, and our team of trademark lawyers is dedicated to meeting your needs. In fact, we help ensure your application is filed correctly the first time so you can get on with your life and avoid legal risks.
At Sausser Summers, PC, we work closely with our clients to understand their needs and provide them with sound professional advice. We never offer incomplete services, such as simply filing for registration, because that would leave you open to legal risks. You can rely on us to handle your intellectual property matters, and our flat fee services can help protect your business in a simple, straightforward, and affordable way. It's really that simple.
In terms of filing a U.S. trademark, we provide an easy three-step process to protect your intellectual property:
1. You provide your trademark info to our team via an online form.
2. Our team performs a comprehensive trademark search. This search ensures that no other marks will prevent you from registering your trademark in the U.S. Once performed, we'll send you a legal opinion letter that details our findings.
3. Sausser Summers, PC, files your U.S. trademark application. We are then listed as your Attorney of Record on file. From there, we'll provide ongoing updates regarding the status of your trademark as it works through the registration process.
The bottom line? At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.
At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.
It's not necessary to be a lawyer in order to apply for a trademark. Anyone can submit a trademark application to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). However, registering a trademark involves more than just filling out a form. It's essential to conduct thorough research, accurately identify and clearly explain your trademark to ensure it receives adequate protection. And even after securing a trademark, you've got to monitor it consistently to make sure it's free from infringement.
The big takeaway here is that it's always a good idea to work with a trademark attorney to protect the intellectual property that you've worked so hard to establish. According to the Wall Street Journal, applicants are approximately 50% more likely to secure their trademark than people who file applications on their own. If your trademark application is rejected by the USPTO, you will need to revise and refile it, incurring additional filing fees. To avoid delays and extra costs, it is best to have a trademark lawyer help you get it right the first time.
Great trademark attorneys (like those you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC) will help with every step of filing and enforcing your trademark. Some additional benefits include the following:
Check to see if your proposed trademark is registered by another entity.
Conduct research to see if another business is using the trademark for which you're applying.
Provide advice and guidance on the strength of your trademark.
Draft and submit your trademark applications and application revisions.
Advice and guidance regarding trademark maintenance and protection.
Monitor the market for unauthorized use of your trademark.
Trademark enforcement to protect you against infringement.
Curious whether our trademark attorney services are right for you and your business? Contact Sausser Summer, PC, today. Let's talk about what you need, and how we can help.
Online services, can provide you with basic assistance in filing your trademark. However, they will never be a legitimate substitute for an experienced trademark attorney helping clients in Whitby, Ontario.
Although online filing services offer a step-by-step process, they take a one-size-fits-all approach to preparing legal documents. Even their advanced service only provides basic attorney assistance in completing your paperwork and helping with minor roadblocks. Online filing services' disclaimer highlights the many limitations of its services, including the fact that communications are not protected by attorney-client privilege. In addition, online filing services cannot provide advice, explanations, opinions, recommendations, or any kind of legal guidance on possible legal rights, remedies, defenses, options, selection of forms or strategies.
In other words, online filing services can offer you the necessary forms and point you in the right direction, but they cannot customize their services to your specific needs or help you with serious complications that may arise.
For the most comprehensive trademark service and protection, it's always wise to work with highly rated trademark lawyers, like you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC.
Trademarks in the U.S. can last indefinitely, but did you know that clients in Whitby, Ontario can file a trademark online, only to lose protection in some circumstances? Trademarks differ from patents and copyrights in that they do not have an expiration date. However, to prevent the cancellation of a trademark, you must maintain it. To ensure that your trademark remains protected, you must actively use it in commerce and renew it with the USPTO every ten years.
The Lanham Act tells us that "use in commerce" is the legitimate use of a trademark in the ordinary course of trade. In other words, you cannot register a trademark solely to reserve the rights to it in the future. In most cases, a trademark must be used continuously in connection with the goods or services it is registered for.
Trademarks are registered with the USPTO and generally need to be renewed every ten years. However, there is one crucial exception that you should be aware of. Within the first ten years of owning a trademark, you must file for renewal between the fifth and sixth year from the date of your initial registration.
During this renewal period, you are required to submit a Section 8 declaration, a specimen that shows how the mark is being used, and pay the required fee. You can also apply for Section 15 Incontestability status, which can strengthen your trademark rights. This application, although not mandatory, can make it harder for others to challenge your ownership of the mark.
After the first renewal, which falls between the fifth and sixth year of ownership, the next renewal filing is due between the ninth and tenth year, and then every tenth year thereafter. In the ninth year you will need to file a Section 8 declaration, attesting to your use of the mark or excusable nonuse. You've also got to file a Section 9 renewal application before the end of the tenth year to keep your registration active.
It is worth noting that the USPTO provides a six-month grace period if you fail to renew your mark within the required time frame, but it is best not to rely on it. If you don't file within the grace period time limits, the USPTO will cancel and expire your mark.
By hiring trademark attorneys helping clients in Whitby, Ontario, you can avoid the pitfalls and mistakes that can arise and cause you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it.
In the event that you stop using your trademark and have no plans to resume using it in commerce, it may be considered abandoned by the USPTO. This could result in the loss of your protective rights to the mark. Typically, a trademark is assumed to be abandoned if it has not been used for three years. However, you may be able to refute this presumption by providing evidence that you intend to use the mark again in the future.
In addition to trademark abandonment, you should also be wary of improper licensing. It's important to remember that once you allow someone else to use your trademark, you must keep an eye on how they use it. You should monitor the products or services that feature your trademark to ensure that they meet consumers' expectations in terms of quality. Failure to do so can lead to a "naked" trademark license and the loss of your protective trademark rights.
If you're wondering how you can avoid refiling your trademark, the answer is simple: file it correctly the first time around. Filing a trademark isn't inherently difficult, but when doing so, it's very important that certain aspects are filled out accurately in your application. If any information is missing or incorrect, the trademark application may be considered "void ab initio" or void from the beginning, requiring you to file again.
To avoid this, make sure that the information you provide in the application is accurate and complete, including the ownership of the trademark. For instance, if a corporation has multiple shareholders, it should not file under the President's personal name. The rightful owner should be the one/entity that ultimately controls the trademark and the associated goods/services.
It is also important to ensure that the goods and/or services description is precise. For example, if you sell electronic products, you should not file for research and development services despite having a research and development department. The goods/services description should reflect the goods/services you offer to customers, not the departments within your business.
Additionally, providing accurate dates of first use when filing for a trademark is crucial. The USPTO requires two dates to be specified - the date of first use anywhere and the date of first use in interstate commerce. Contact our trademark law office today to learn more about having accurate dates on your filing paperwork.
At Sausser Summers, PC, we often get questions about how to distinguish run-of-the-mill consultants and others from great trademark attorneys. After all - when you're looking for an attorney to file or prosecute your business trademark, you should know their qualifications. Here are three ways you can separate the proverbial wheat from the chaff when it comes to trademark attorneys.
It's crucial to seek legal advice from a licensed trademark lawyer rather than relying on advice from non-professionals like trademark consultants. The USPTO even recommends hiring an attorney to help with the trademark process. Although trademark consultants may provide advice on trademark availability or name marketability, they cannot file the trademark for you or offer legal advice. According to the Rules of Practicing in trademark cases, "Individuals who are not attorneys are not recognized to practice before the Office in trademark matters." This rule applies to individuals who assist trademark applicants.
When searching for a trademark attorney, it's important to find someone with a strong background in trademark law. Look for an attorney who specializes in this area and has significant experience handling trademark-related cases. Avoid lawyers who don't have expertise in this field, as they may not be able to provide the guidance and support you need.
Ensure your attorney provides updates throughout the trademark registration process to avoid missing deadlines, including responding to any Office actions within six months. Failure to do so can result in trademark abandonment. The USPTO will only correspond with the listed attorney of record, so make sure your attorney keeps you informed.
In summary:
Building your brand and gaining recognition for it is a significant achievement, and it's important to protect it. However, there are certain pitfalls and mistakes that can arise, causing you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it. By working with knowledgeable trademark attorneys, you can avoid these issues and file your trademark successfully.
With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Sausser Summers, PC, offers comprehensive guidance, strategic advice, and reliable representation for a variety of trademark matters. Our attorneys have years of real-world experience and, having registered countless trademarks with the USPTO, provide our clients with individualized representation when they need it most.
If you're looking for skilled, adept, and experienced counsel, look no further than our trademark law firm. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and learn how we can help you safeguard your brand.
Right: Flying Squirrel, Whitby | Left: Pinnacle Indoor Climbing, Bowmanville by Ebti Nabag PhotographyIf winter hikes, skiing and ice skating have you saying, “snow thank you”, then perhaps the holiday break is a great season to spend quality time indoors with your family. If you’re looking to get out of the house (but not outside), there are plenty of attractions in Durham Region to keep you entertained—and warm—all winter long. Ajax Bowling Centre...
Right: Flying Squirrel, Whitby | Left: Pinnacle Indoor Climbing, Bowmanville by Ebti Nabag Photography
If winter hikes, skiing and ice skating have you saying, “snow thank you”, then perhaps the holiday break is a great season to spend quality time indoors with your family. If you’re looking to get out of the house (but not outside), there are plenty of attractions in Durham Region to keep you entertained—and warm—all winter long.
172 Harwood Avenue South, Ajax | Photo by Jessie Davis
Did you know that five-pin bowling is only played in Canada? The smaller bowling balls make it easier for people of all ages and abilities to bowl that strike! If you’re looking for an all-ages activity in Ajax, check out Ajax Bowling Centre. In operation since 1997, they’re an established gathering place to socialize and master the art of five-pin bowling.
1735 Bayly Street Unit 16, Pickering
Unleash your inner archer at Archers Battlefield in Pickering! Experience adrenaline-fueled archers battles in the exhilarating battlefield games—where precision and strategy collide for an unforgettable adventure of skill and teamwork. Bows, soft foam-tipped arrows, breathable face masks and arm guards are provided for all players. Then, challenge your friends or family to a friendly game of ping pong, or join one of the organized tournaments to showcase your skills.
1400 Victoria Street East Unit 4, Whitby
Aspire Climbing is a full-service indoor rock climbing and ninja warrior facility with 8,000 square feet of rock-climbing walls for all ages and ability levels. What sets Aspire Climbing apart? They make climbing accessible to everyone with adaptive climbing. They use specialized equipment, strategies and instruction to support those of various abilities. They’re currently offering pay what you can "Try Us Out Nights", on the last Sunday of the month, as well as private lessons for adaptive climbing.
813 Brock Road Unit 11, Pickering | Photo by Ebti Nabag Photography
BATL Axe Throwing in Pickering offers an exciting destination for axe throwing enthusiasts and those looking for a new experience. BATL Pickering is 8,700 square feet with 28 axe throwing arenas equipped to give you ample space to perfect your axe and hatchet throwing skills.
330 Lake Road, Bowmanville | Photo by Ebti Nabag Photography
The Clarington Entertainment Complex is a collection of businesses that have come together to combine recreation and entertainment for kids to exercise and have fun. Joey’s World is an indoor playground that features a multi-tiered climbing structure, 23 platformed Sky Trekking, 20-foot rock wall and more!
Pinnacle Indoor Climbing has more than 4,000 square feet of climbing, 40-foot tall climbing walls and floor-to-ceiling windows for an open and bright climbing experience. Choose from a variety of climbing experiences including: bouldering, kilter board, speed wall, auto-belay climbing, lead climbing and top-rope climbing.
After climbing to new heights, try something a little different at Stoick Axe Throwing. With staff on hand to offer instruction and guide you through the session, you’re sure to have fun finding your inner lumberjack!
Don’t forget to warm up your brain too! At Durham Escape Rooms, work with your team to find clues, solve puzzles, open locks and (hopefully) escape! All games are 100 per cent original with different themes and levels of difficulty.
1400 Victoria Street East, Whitby | Photo by Flying Squirrel Whitby on IG
Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park is a family fun centre with activities and attractions for all ages. They even have toddler time for children six years of age and under. Flying Squirrel will get you warmed up with a variety of attractions including dodge ball, dunk hoops, aerial silks and lyra, the fly zone, free style courts and inflatable parks.
1300 Wilson Road North, Oshawa | Photo by Oshawa Tourism
NEB’s Fun World is an indoor family entertainment centre located in north Oshawa. It’s the world’s largest five-pin bowling centre with 52 lanes, which also offers 10-pin bowling, and 65-inch flatscreen televisions on every lane. They also have more than 120 arcade games and more than 10 indoor rides for both kids and adults, including bumper cars. The indoor climbing centre for younger children is a must visit!
75 Consumers Drive, Whitby | Photo by Ebti Nabag Photography
Movies, food and skydiving—there’s lots of indoor fun to be had at the Whitby Entertainment Centrum, but Playdium has your desire to compete covered. Virtual reality, video games, ropes course, bowling and more, makes Playdium the perfect place to spend an afternoon. It’s located off Highway 401 for easy access and is surrounded by a selection of restaurants, Landmark Cinema, Putting Edge, iFly Indoor Skydiving and more.
1400 Victoria Street East, Whitby | Photo by Ebti Nabag Photography
Missing those warm summer afternoons? Next on our list is Reptilia Zoo—The Ultimate Reptile Zoo Experience. Reptilia is home to more than 250 species of reptiles, amphibians and arachnids from around the world. They focus on providing excellent guest experiences for everyone. Learn about Reptilia’s reptile family and see how they are cared for, and interact during daily shows, tours and scheduled feedings.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park is the place to visit to jump, spin, flip and play. Practise catching big air with a soft landing in the foam zone or conquer the warped wall of different heights. Take your parkour skills to the next level or push your athletic abilities on the ninja warrior course.
2383 Durham Regional Highway 2, Bowmanville
Volt Raceway is where speed meets thrill! This indoor entertainment complex in Bowmanville offers high-speed go-kart racing, axe throwing, billiards, arcade games, and the unique Volt Blaster experience. The space features two tracks for different age groups, so everyone from kids to adults can enjoy the excitement. The Fun Track is designed for younger racers, while the Thrill Track provides a more intense challenge for older teens and adults. With all sorts of fun all under one roof, Volt is the perfect place for parties, corporate events, or just a fun day out, and guarantees non-stop excitement and thrills!
Canadian Automotive Museum, Oshawa | Photo by Central Counties Tourism
Durham Region is home to arts, culture, history and heritage. Get tickets to see live music, theatre or cinema, or visit art galleries, museums, and historical sites. Cultural attractions make a great afternoon out, especially in the chilly winter months.
In the heart of our communities, you’ll find makers’ markets, a wide variety of restaurants, coffee roasteries, gaming cafés and retail shops. Explore Durham’s fourteen distinct and diverse downtown areas on the Downtowns of Durham blog, and find plenty more indoor adventure ideas.If you head out with family or friends to visit one of Durham's many attractions, we’d love to hear about your adventure! Tag @DurhamTourism on social media and make sure to follow us to stay up to date on all the fun things happening in our area!