Checklist: Documents to Collect When Trademarking Your Business Name
Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last updated June 20, 2016
You may not realize it initially, but your business name is your primary brand. When customers and partners think about your products or services, they will always be linked to your business name; that is why it's so important to do thorough trademark research before you settle on a business name.
Keep in mind that business registration in many states automatically registers the name as well. But if your business name is Garden Depot LLC and you sell goods under the "Garden Depot" name (without the LLC), then this is technically a fictitious business name. Similarly, a sole proprietorship -- which is registered under the owner's personal name -- typically does business under a DBA (or "doing business as...").
Make sure you fully understand the laws and regulations of your state with respect to business name registration. See FindLaw's Trademarks and Choosing Your Business Name sections to learn more.
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Get Professional Legal Help Before Registering Your Business Name
Intellectual property law can get quite complicated, but it really depends on the needs and nature of your business, and the matters at hand. Talking to a trademark law attorney is the best way to ensure compliance with the law and protection of your valuable brand assets. After all, your business name is your main brand.
Next Steps
Contact a qualified business attorney to help you identify how to best protect your business' intellectual property.