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Help Tackle Law in Patent & Trademark

A patent protects inventions, giving the inventor exclusive rights to make, use, or sell the new invention for a fixed period. A trademark, on the other hand, protects brands by securing distinctive names, logos, or slogans that identify goods or services. While patents focus on innovations, trademarks are about building and preserving brand identity. Both serve different purposes but are essential in protecting intellectual property.

Applying for a patent usually involves preparing a detailed description of your invention and filing it with the patent office, where it undergoes examination. For trademarks, you file an application including your brand name or logo with the trademark office, which verifies its uniqueness. Both processes may require legal help to navigate complex requirements, avoid objections, and successfully secure protection.

A patent generally lasts for 20 years from the filing date, during which the inventor holds exclusive rights to their invention. Trademarks, however, can last indefinitely, provided they are actively used and renewal fees are paid periodically—commonly every 10 years. These protections balance rewarding creators and businesses with encouraging public access once their exclusive rights expire or if the marks are no longer maintained.

Absolutely. You can protect different parts of the same product in distinct ways. The invention itself may be patented, offering protection for its design or function. Meanwhile, the product’s brand name or logo can be trademarked to secure its identity in the marketplace. Combining these protections gives you a more comprehensive shield over your creation, covering both how it works and how it’s recognized by customers.

Registering both a patent and a trademark offers vital legal protection and boosts your business. A patent keeps others from copying your invention, while a trademark builds your brand and earns customer trust. Together, they increase your company’s value, open doors for licensing, and give you strong tools to defend your rights, helping you keep full control over your innovation and brand reputation.