Trademark or Patent

You may be wondering what the difference is between trademarks and patents. If you have had an idea that you believe has a great deal of potential, you should consider registering for a trademark or patent to help you protect your innovative idea. Here are a few things that may help you decide whether or trademark or patent is more appropriate for your idea:

Patent: A patent is an idea that is entirely new or even revolutionary. In order to be patented, an idea must also be non-obvious. This means that your idea can not have been conceived by a person of general skill in the industry of the idea. Finally, patents must be useful and serve a specific purpose.

Trademark: A trademark is a type of intellectual property, much like a patent. It is a distinctive sign or indicator that represents an individual, corporation, or other legal entities. Unlike a patent, a trademark does not need to meet any of the previously mentioned criteria. The trademark is, instead, used to identify the source of products or services. While a trademark does not need to be registered, it is easier to defend against trademark infringement when it is registered.

Contact a Patent Litigation Lawyer

Patents and trademarks can be a great help to the security of your idea. If you or someone you know would like more information about patents and trademarks, please call the patent litigation lawyers of Williams Kherkher at 800.761.3187.