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A state trademark generally guarantees you the statewide right to any words, symbols or logos you use to establish your business identity. Check with the North Dakota Secretary of State to make sure you are offered more protection than a common law trademark and whether or not your state offers the standard 10 years of protection, similar to a federal trademark.
When preparing a trademark application, you will typically be required to perform a trademark search at both the state and federal level to make sure youre not infringing on a pre-existing trademark. Either you or a professional trademark search firm, such as LegalZoom, can search the United States Patent and Trademark Offices library and the North Dakota Secretary of State.
If you are planning on doing any business outside of North Dakota, it might be a good idea to consider a federal trademark. A federal trademark will grant you the right to use your name nationwide. Youll also enjoy expanded legal powers, such as the ability to stop competitors anywhere in the United States from using your name or identifying marks in their business dealings. Websites, mail order catalogs, even selling your products once a year at a tasting or a festival all count as interstate commerce.
If youd like more information about a federal trademark and whether or not its right for you, check out LegalZooms free, online legal library. If you decide to register with the USPTO, LegalZoom offers practical assistance for federal trademark registration. Fill out our easy-to-follow online questionnaire and protect your valuable brand identity, nationwide. Ensure the future of a growing business get your federal trademark today!
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