How Do I Renew a Trademark in New Jersey?
When you finally secure a trademark for your business, you may feel as though the weight of the world has lifted from your shoulders. Creating a trademark is a great way to help your products or services stand out among your competition, as it allows your clients and customers to easily identify your business. However, you may assume that once you have the trademark, you are set for life. In reality, you must renew the trademark to ensure it is still active and applicable to your business. If you’re not sure what the steps in the renewal process are, you’ll want to keep reading. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the importance of working with a Bergen County, NJ trademark protection attorney when you need assistance during this process.
What Is a Trademark?
A trademark is a legal protection for businesses, as it allows them to distinguish their products and services from others in the same industry. You can apply a trademark to a phrase, word, logo, symbol, or a combination of these. Common examples of trademarks include the Nike “swoosh” logo or their “just do it” slogan. Trademarking your ideas helps create brand identity, ensuring your services and goods are not mistaken for others.
It’s imperative to understand that obtaining a trademark does not mean that no one else can ever use that idea. Instead, you’ll find that it generally only applies to those in your field or industry niche. For example, if you create a logo for your dog grooming business, a bakery on the other side of the country may come up with and use a similar logo for their business. This would not be an infringement, as there is no room for confusion given the geographical locations and different industries.
What Steps Must I Take to Renew My Trademark?
It’s important to understand that a trademark is not indefinite. To continue using your established trademark, you must meet a few requirements. The first is that you must ensure your contact and business information are up-to-date and accurate. Next, you’ll need to ensure that your business or the trademarked goods are still available. You cannot maintain a trademark for a good or business that no longer exists. Finally, you’ll need to ensure you submit the necessary paperwork and payments when the renewal period opens.
Typically, you must renew a trademark between the first and sixth year following the initial registration of the trademark. As such, you will file a Declaration of Use with the United States Patent and Trademark Office to avoid your registration expiring and subsequently canceled. Once you have filed, you must repeat this process between the ninth and tenth year and then again every ten years after.
Trademark renewal can be a complicated process, as you must ensure all information is filed correctly and on time to avoid having your right to protection revoked. As such, it’s in your best interest to connect with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At the Law Offices of Richard E. Novak, we understand how difficult these circumstances can be. That is why our team is committed to helping you through this process. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for you during these matters.