A trademark is a type of intellectual property that protects a business’s branding and unique identifiers. There are two types of trademarks: registered and unregistered. A registered trademark is federally protected, while an unregistered trademark only has state-level protection. In order to register a trademark, the business must file an application with the US Patent and Trademark Office. TM is a symbol used to denote an unregistered trademark, while ® is used for registered trademarks.
What is TM?
- A trademark is a sign that distinguishes your goods or services from those of other businesses. It can be a word, phrase, logo, graphic, sound, scent, or shape. A trademark can be registered with the UK Intellectual Property Office (UK IPO) to give you exclusive rights to use it across the UK for up to 10 years. You can also renew it indefinitely as long as you continue using it.
- The ® symbol shows that a trademark is registered with the UK IPO. You can only use this symbol once your trademark has been registered and the registration process has been completed.
- The ™ symbol can be used with unregistered trademarks. It shows that you claim ownership of the trademark and that it’s being used as a trademark, but it doesn’t give you exclusive rights to use it.
- You don’t have to register your trademark to use it, but registration gives you extra protection against imitations by giving you exclusive rights to use it across the UK.
- If someone uses your registered trademark without permission, they’re breaking the law and you could take them to court.
What is a Registered Trademark?
A trademark is a sign that distinguishes the goods or services of one company from those of another. A registered trademark is a trademark that has been registered with the relevant national authority. In order to be registered, a trademark must be distinctive, capable of being represented graphically, and not be confusingly similar to an existing registered trademark. The registration process can be lengthy and costly, but it confers significant benefits, including the exclusive right to use the mark in connection with the goods or services for which it is registered. Registered trademarks are a valuable asset, and their owners have a legal duty to ensure that they are used correctly and not allowed to fall into disuse.
Difference between TM and Registered Trademark
- Most people are familiar with the term “trademark,” but they may not be aware of the difference between a TM and a registered trademark. A trademark is any word, phrase, symbol, or design that identifies and distinguishes the source of goods or services. A TM indicates that you are claiming ownership of the mark, but you have not yet registered it with the US Patent and Trademark Office. A registered trademark is one that has been officially registered with the USPTO. In order to register a trademark, you must file a proper application and meet certain requirements. Once your trademark is registered, you will be granted exclusive rights to use it in connection with your goods or services. Registered trademarks are indicated by the ® symbol.
- There are several benefits to registering your trademark. First, it gives you nationwide protection for your mark. Second, it helps to deter others from using your mark without your permission. Finally, if someone does infringe on your registered trademark, you will have a much easier time proving your case in court.
Conclusion
The takeaway is that a TM is not as powerful or enforceable as a registered trademark, but it can be helpful in preventing others from using your mark without permission. If you are serious about protecting your brand and its associated goodwill, then you should consider registering your trademark with the USPTO. Doing so will give you the strongest possible protection against unauthorized use of your mark and ensure that you are the only one who can legally use it in connection with your products or services.
