Step 1: Trademark Search
The first step in the patent process is a trademark search. This is where we conduct a search of the database at the United States Patent and Trademark Office. The purpose is to find other marks that are currently in use and that may be confusingly similar to your proposed mark. If something is found, then you would be infringing on their mark. The cost for this step is $850 per mark.
The novelty search takes about 1 to 2 weeks to complete.
Step 2: Trademark Application
The second step is the preparation and filing of a trademark application provided that the trademark search indicates that you should be able to get a trademark registration.
The cost for the second step is $900 for one standard character mark in a single class. If you have a logo and other aspects that you want to get a trademark on, then we will discuss the pros and cons of protecting those other aspects once we are retained as your attorney. For most, they only need one trademark application.
It will take about 1 week to prepare and file the trademark application.
Once the trademark application is filed, then you're application is pending and you are safe to disclose your mark to the public.
Step 3: Examination
The third step is examination. In about 6 to 9 months, the trademark office will work through its backlog and examine your trademark application. As long as there is no refusal of the trademark application, you will spend about $600 more to get your trademark registered. At the end, there is no guarantee that you will get your mark registered.
Before you schedule your consultation, please research my background. Click here.
After your research and if the estimates above are within your budget, Schedule your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost mentioned above are for one trademark. As such, if you have a logo, slogan and other aspects that you want to get a trademark on, then one trademark application needs to be filed for each logo, slogan, etc. The cost estimates need to be adjusted accordingly.
After you retain me on the trademark search or the trademark application, we will enter into a consultation where we discuss your business plans and the budget. Based on your goals, visions and values, we will craft a plan to protect your trademarks.
The goal of the consultation is to explain what you can expect to get if you protect various aspects of your trademark(s).
My approach to client counseling is to first understand your situation then enter into a conversation with you. During that conversation, we will agree on the next steps based on your budget and goals. This takes time and costs.