9 results for tag: intellectual property


The Trademark Office Does Not Give Out Trademarks

Novice business owners sometimes believe that the United States Patent & Trademark Office (the USPTO) gives out trademarks. This is incorrect and costs them money, time and energy for no benefit. The USPTO registers your trademark rights. While this may seem like a minor difference, understanding that difference can prevent you from wasting time on a flawed trademark strategy. (more…)

How To Copycat-Proof Your Company

Any small business is vulnerable to copycats. If you are producing a product, it is only a matter of time before someone seeks to copy what you have done. And as your business gains in success, the chances of this happening are higher. However, many business owners do not prepare their company for this reality. And they suffer for it. This video shows you how to easily copy-cat proof your company and make sure that you have a game plan for when copycats arrive. (more…)

When Memes May Not Equal Fair Use

Website Alternet used a photographer's picture of Willie Nelson as part of a meme that got over 33,000 shares. The photographer sued Alternet. This video provides commentary on the case and discusses practical issues surrounding Creative Commons licenses, getting permission and fair use. (more…)

How To Access The United States Copyright Registration System

Getting a copyright registration confers many benefits. This video gives you a basic tour of the features of the United States Copyright Office registration system. If you are interested registering your own United States copyright, this video gets you oriented quickly so that you know what to expect. (more…)

What Should I Do If My Trademark Is Confusing with Another Trademark?

Sometimes a trademark that we want to adopt is too similar with an existing trademark. This might be a problem, or it might not be. This video describes the way that business owners should think about trademark confusion issues and goes into what some possible options and solutions there may be. (more…)

Trying to Protect Ideas Is (Usually) Pointless. Here is What To Do Instead.

Trying to protect ideas can lead to a waste of time and energy for new businesses. This video discusses how the law treats ideas and what you can do to turn your ideas into valuable intellectual property. (more…)

3 Main Legal Tasks For New Businesses

If you are starting a new business, these are the first legal steps you should take to create a foundation for future success. This video discusses the importance of creating the right business entity, registering your trademark and creating good contracts. Also, why you should have a relationship with an attorney early on.   Notes Practice Areas Overview

Should I Register A Trademark for My “Generic” Business Name

If you have a "generic" business name (for instance, Counsel for Creators - which describes exactly what we do!) you still may want to seek trademark protection. This video breaks down the whys and hows so that you can make an informed decision about what it means to register a trademark for your descriptive business name. (more…)

The Basic Rule About Using Other People’s Copyrighted Works

If you want to use someone else's creative work, you should understand the basic rules so that you can avoid legal liability. This video discusses what you need to do if you want to use someone else's creative work, including music, photographs, writing and more. Presented by Jon Tobin, Esq., founder and attorney with Counsel for Creators LLP. (more…)