Skip to Content Top

Indianapolis TRADEMARK LAWYERS

Safeguard Your Creative Rights: 463-287-6731

People typically associate a business with a name, logo, color, or visual. That’s why for many businesses, how their customers connect with them is truly their biggest asset. This is also known as intellectual property. Without trademark or intellectual property protection, these valuable business assets can be diluted in the marketplace or worse yet, stolen altogether. 

At Katie Charleston Law, P.C., our job is to help you protect your creative rights through trademark and intellectual property strategy, registration, and maintenance. Doing so ensures your business gets the credit and the financial gains that come with it.

How Our Indianapolis Trademark Lawyers Can Assist You

  • Better understand trademarks as part of your overall business strategy
  • What happens if you don’t protect your business’s intellectual property
  • Understand your intellectual property rights and infringement
  • How trademark lawyers, like us, can proactively help you protect your brand

Don’t let other companies take credit for your creative ideas and hard work. Call 463-287-6731 to protect your brand, creative rights, and assets.


WHAT IS A TRADEMARK?

A trademark protects your business’s intellectual property including slogans, business names, shapes, catchphrases, brand colors, and company names.

Not only does having a trademark set you apart from your competition in the marketplace, but it also affords you legal protection from anyone stealing your trademark or name for financial gain, media attention, and more without your consent or approval.

Our trademark lawyers with Katie Charleston Law, P.C. can help you better understand trademarks as a viable option for your business entity. We also can review if a trademark or another form of intellectual property, as part of your overall business strategy, makes sense for your long-term goals.

How Long Does It Take To Obtain A Registered Trademark in IN?

The process of obtaining a registered trademark in Indiana is identical to the procedure followed throughout the United States. 

Here’s a general timeline:

  • Initial Application Review: After submitting your trademark application to the USPTO, it typically takes 1 to 3 months for an examining attorney to be assigned.
  • Examination Process: The examining attorney evaluates the application for legal compliance, which can take about 3 to 6 months. If issues arise, such as potential confusion with an existing trademark or incomplete information, an office action will be issued, requiring a response within 6 months.
  • Publication for Opposition: If the application is approved, it is published in the USPTO's Official Gazette, allowing others a 30-day period to oppose the registration.
  • Registration: If there are no oppositions, or if any oppositions are resolved favorably, the USPTO will issue a registration certificate approximately 2 to 3 months after the opposition period ends.

Overall, the process can span from 8 months to over a year, influenced by factors like the application’s complexity, any legal hurdles, and the USPTO’s workload. Ensuring a complete and accurate application can help minimize delays. 

What Are Common Reasons For Trademark Applications Being Rejected?

Trademark applications can be rejected for several common reasons. At Katie Charleston Law, PC, our seasoned Indianapolis trademark attorneys are here to help you navigate these complexities and improve your chances of a successful application.

Key Reasons for Rejection:

  • Likelihood of Confusion: A frequent reason for rejection is the likelihood of confusion with an existing trademark. If your trademark closely resembles another registered or pending trademark, it could cause consumer confusion about the source of the goods or services.
  • Descriptiveness: Marks that merely describe the product or service are often rejected. For example, "Fresh Bread" for a bakery might be considered too descriptive and not distinctive enough for trademark protection.
  • Generic Terms: Generic terms that refer to general categories of products or services cannot be trademarked. For instance, attempting to register “Laptop” for computers would be too generic.
  • Deceptive Marks: Marks that mislead consumers about the nature, quality, or geographic origin of goods or services are likely to be rejected.
  • Lack of Distinctiveness: Marks that are not unique or distinguishable from others in the industry may be rejected.

Our trademark lawyers in Indianapolis are dedicated to providing guidance, ensuring your application avoids these common pitfalls. Contact us at Katie Charleston Law, PC for personalized legal advice.

Why Choose Katie Charleston Law, PC for Your Trademark Needs?

Safeguard your creative rights and assets with a legal practice renowned for its success in trademark law. At Katie Charleston Law, PC, our Indianapolis trademark attorneys have the knowledge to help you navigate the trademark application process effortlessly.

Here are some reasons why you should choose us for your trademark needs:

  • Thorough knowledge of trademark law
  • Individualized care and personalized solutions
  • A track record of success in trademark applications
  • Efficient and cost-effective services
  • Dedication to protecting your brand and creative rights

Ensure your creative ideas and hard work are fully protected. Schedule a consultation with our dedicated trademark lawyers at Katie Charleston Law, PC by reaching out to our law firm today.

 

Commonly Asked Questions

How can I determine if my trademark is eligible for registration?

To determine if your trademark is eligible for registration, assess its distinctiveness and ensure it does not conflict with existing trademarks. A trademark must be unique and not merely descriptive of the goods or services it represents. Conduct a comprehensive search of the USPTO database and other relevant sources to identify any similar trademarks. Additionally, consider the potential for consumer confusion. If you’re uncertain about your trademark’s eligibility, consulting with a legal professional can provide clarity and guidance tailored to your specific situation.

What steps should I take to protect my trademark in Indianapolis?

To protect your trademark in Indianapolis, start by conducting a thorough search to ensure your desired trademark is not already in use. Once confirmed, you can file an application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). It’s crucial to provide accurate information and a clear description of your trademark. After submission, be prepared for the examination process, which may involve responding to any office actions. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can help streamline this process and enhance your chances of successful registration.

What are the benefits of hiring a trademark attorney in Indianapolis?

Hiring a trademark attorney in Indianapolis offers numerous benefits, including expert guidance through the complex trademark application process. An attorney can help you navigate potential pitfalls, such as likelihood of confusion with existing trademarks or issues related to descriptiveness. They can also assist in conducting thorough searches to ensure your trademark is unique. Furthermore, having legal representation can enhance the likelihood of a successful application and provide peace of mind, knowing that your creative rights are being protected by a knowledgeable professional.

  • Katie and Hannah are absolutely marvelous to chat with and really know their stuff. If someone is infringing on your trademark rights, this is who you want in your corner. Cheers!
    - Peter Q.

    As Seen ON

    • ABC
    • CBS
    • GoBankingRates
    • International Business Times
    • NASDAQ
    • ValiantCEO
    • Yahoo! Finance

      HOW CAN OUR TRADEMARK LAWYER HELP?

      Requirements of the trademark process, laws related to trademarks, and the overall process can be confusing. Our trademark lawyers can help you seamlessly navigate the process, take the right steps and avoid costly mistakes that could harm your business now and into the future.

      As a closer look, our trademark attorneys can help with:

      • Proactively identify issues related to your trademark registration
      • Help set a strategy for an innovative trademark
      • Work through any issues, like conflicting marks, that might get your trademark denied
      • Trademark usage and how you can or cannot use it
      • Review your competitors’ trademarks and intellectual property
      • Litigate any infringement issues if a person or company uses your trademark illegally
      • Keep you abreast of any industry changes or updates that might apply to your trademark
       Continue Reading Read Less

      HOME TO THE SHARK MARK

      Our Shark Mark plan is ideal for the business owner looking to be known by their mark. Why? Because with this plan, we work with you to ensure your mark is a unique representation of your product or service to set your business up for optimal success. 

      Complete with a comprehensive analysis of your mark prior to the application process, we work to decrease any chance that your mark will get rejected by the USPTO and then diligently monitor your marks to discover and fight against anyone who may use your mark or something confusingly similar.

      BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION tODAY

      At Katie Charleston Law, P.C., we focus on a comprehensive partnership—rather than a transaction—that includes integrated asset protection. From trademark and intellectual property protection to everyday business counsel and civil appeals.

      We’re your turnkey asset protection partner in life and business—we protect your assets throughout your business journey.

      Why Choose Katie Charleston Law, PC?

      Helping Businesses Like Yours
      • We Research Thoroughly

        Detail-oriented, we leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of favorable outcomes for our clients--and often find information  you didn't know you needed.

      • Simplifying the Process

        We explain legal concepts in plain language, guide our clients through each step of the process, and handle the details so you can focus on what matters most to you.

      • Comprehensive Approach

        With holistic service from beginning to end, we stick with our clients through the lifetime of your assets, including litigation if necessary.

      • Responsive & Reachable

        We prioritize timely communcation; our team is responsive and accessible, and you'll never be left wondering where your case stands.

      Contact us Today

      Get Started With A Consultation

      Reach out today by calling (463) 287-6731 or fill out the form below.

      • Please enter your first name.
      • Please enter your last name.
      • Please enter your phone number.
        This isn't a valid phone number.
      • Please enter your email address.
        This isn't a valid email address.
      • Please make a selection.
      • Please enter a message.
      • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy