Registering a Trademark at the State, Federal, and International Levels
If doing business in only one state, then trademark registration should be done with the Department of State. This is true for small businesses and growing chains alike.
Once a business markets and promotes to consumers across state lines, it becomes eligible for federal trademark registration at the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office. This has been an integral step in business growth and franchising. However, it is recommended that the trademarks are also registered at the state level where the business is conducted. In the event that a competitor infringes upon that trademark, then remedies at both the state and federal level may be available.
Despite the fact that there is no such thing as an "international trademark," filing an application for a U.S. trademark can lay the foundation for applying for trademark registration in other countries. There are procedural requirments involved, so consultation with a trademark attorney is advised.
Labels: business growth, franchising, goods and services, international trademark, trademark
