Intellectual property (IP) is one of the most valuable assets a business can own, yet it is often overlooked until a legal issue arises. Safeguarding your trademarks and copyrights is essential to maintaining your competitive edge.
As a new business owner, you might wonder whether you need a copyright, a trademark, or both. Following are some guidelines.
Copyrights
If your business produces any creative assets, securing copyright protection ensures that others cannot reproduce or distribute your work without permission. You automatically own the copyright to anything you create, but registration provides additional legal benefits. File for a copyright when you create unique content for your business, such as:
- Marketing materials
- Website designs and content
- Training manuals
- Product packaging
- Software
- Photographs
- Music
Trademarks
A trademark is more than just a logo or company name—it represents your business’s reputation and distinguishes your products or services from competitors. Registering your trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) provides nationwide protection and prevents others from using similar marks that could confuse consumers. File for a trademark if you have:
- A unique brand name
- A recognizable logo
- A distinctive tagline
Key Differences
- Copyrights protect the expression of ideas, while trademarks protect identifiers of the source of goods or services.
- Copyright is automatic, but trademarks require registration to secure exclusive rights.
Proactively protecting your creations builds a solid foundation for your brand’s growth and longevity. Griffith Barbee can help you navigate the process efficiently and effectively. Schedule a consultation with Griffith Barbee to learn more.
Who is Griffith Barbee, PLLC?
Griffith Barbee is a boutique intellectual property and commercial litigation law firm in Dallas, Texas. We understand first-hand what entrepreneurs need to know starting out. Afterall, we too were once new business owners.
Founded in 2018 by two experienced Dallas trial lawyers, Casey Griffith and Michael Barbee, our expertise covers the increasingly complex world of patents, trademarks, trade secrets, and copyrights.
From entrepreneurs and emerging start-ups to business leaders and international corporations, our award-winning lawyers represent clients of all types and sizes.
Griffith Barbee has built a track record of success by relentlessly fighting for clients and their causes. We forge authentic and lasting relationships with our clients, focus on their goals, and advocate for them with passion, creativity, and dedication.
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