When you see a TM or R symbol next to a trademark, it’s important to understand what they mean. The TM symbol indicates that the trademark is registered, while the R symbol means that it is only being used as a trade name. Knowing the difference between these symbols can help avoid legal troubles. Here at our law firm, we specialize in intellectual property law and can help you protect your trademarks with both of these symbols. Contact us today for more information!
What is TM?
The TM symbol stands for trademark. It is a type of intellectual property protection that can be used for brand names, logos, and other distinctive signs. The TM symbol indicates that the owner claims exclusive rights to the use of the mark. In order to use the TM symbol, you must first file a trademark application with the relevant authority in your jurisdiction. Once the application is approved, you can start using the symbol to protect your brand. The TM symbol is an important tool for businesses and individuals who want to safeguard their investment in a brand or logo. By using the TM symbol, you can let potential infringers know that you are serious about protecting your intellectual property.
What is R?
R is a designated symbol that is used to indicate the trademark registration status of a particular product or service. The R designation can only be used by businesses that have registered their trademarks with the US Patent and Trademark Office. When a business uses the R designation, it is indicating that it has made a legal commitment to defending its trademark against infringement. As such, the R designation serves as a valuable tool for businesses in protecting their intellectual property.
Difference between TM and R
The TM and R symbols are both used to designate trademarks, but there is a key difference between the two. The TM symbol can be used regardless of whether or not a trademark has been registered, while the R symbol can only be used once a trademark has been officially registered with the US Patent and Trademark Office. As a result, the TM symbol serves as a more general indicator that a certain name or logo is being used as a trademark. By contrast, the R symbol provides official confirmation that a trademark is fully protected under US law. For businesses, this distinction can be important in terms of deterring potential infringement. After all, it is much harder for someone to argue that they were unaware that a trademark was registered if the R symbol is prominently displayed. Overall, then, the TM and R symbols serve different purposes in relation to trademarks.
Conclusion
The symbol for a trademark (TM) is the letter R in a circle. This symbol indicates that you have registered your trademark with the appropriate governing body, such as the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The use of this symbol lets others know that they may not use your mark without infringing on your intellectual property rights. If you would like to use the ® symbol instead, it must be used only after the mark has been registered with a governing body. In order to register your trademark, you will need to provide evidence of distinctiveness and use in commerce.
