Trademark Registration. Register a trademark.
The rules regarding trademark registration are changing. This is why it is important to stay on top of things. The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has published a new rule regarding trademark registration filings. In the past, applicants could choose to register a trademark with the USPTO using paper or file online through the Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS) . Honestly, in this day and age, it’s hard to understand why anyone would prefer to file for a trademark registration using paper. But, be that as it may, the opportunity to file paper is coming to an end.
New Trademark Registration Rule.
This rule becomes effective on October 5, 2019. As of that date, trademark applicants and registrants must file a trademark registration application online. That also means, applicants and registrants must have and must maintain an accurate email address for receiving correspondence from the USPTO. You will no longer be allowed to submit paper for anything—with a few exceptions.
Why is the USPTO doing this? Because with all the new applications flooding into the government’s office, they need a better system. Using TEAS is an efficient way to file. The use of paper has become burdensome. Electronic filings are easy and reduce processing time with fewer errors.
The Impact of the New Rule.
How will this new rule impact the submission of specimens? It will require stricter attention to how specimens are prepared and submitted. For example,
- A URL and access to ALL webpage specimens for goods and/or services will be required.
- Label and tag specimens must be shown attached to the goods
Another good reason to submit filings electronically is that it’s more likely the filing will be legally complete, and your filing will be processed faster.
Get it wrong, and you will pay.
As always, you can do this yourself, IF you know what you are doing. But, as with anything, when in doubt, it is always better to hire an expert. It’s better to do something right the first time than mess it up and pay more to clean up the mess. I know for me, I know Copyright Law, Trademark Law, Publishing Law, and Estate Planning. I know nothing about patents, real estate, bankruptcy, criminal, or family law. If I needed a lawyer that handles any of those areas of practice, I’d hire an expert.
I am Attorney Francine Ward helping you protect what’s yours. Facebook Law Fan Page, Twitter Law Page, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube Channel.
