Trademark Application Services
We Make Applying for Trademarks Affordable & Simple
Protecting your intellectual property (IP) should not feel out of reach or overly complicated. At SharkMark, we specialize in simplifying trademark applications for small businesses, entrepreneurs, and others looking to safeguard their ideas without prohibitive costs. Our services are designed to streamline every step, providing the documents and support you need to submit your application confidently, with the option to consult an attorney. Whether you are establishing a new company, revitalizing an existing brand, or introducing a new product or service, we are here to help you take control of your IP protection.
To start with us or learn more about our trademark application services, call (463) 223-9869 or connect with SharkMark online.
What Is a Trademark & What Does It Protect?
A trademark is a unique symbol, word, phrase, or design that identifies and distinguishes your products and services from others in the marketplace. Think of it as your brand’s signature, a way for customers to quickly recognize you. Registering your trademark offers legal protection against unauthorized use by others, helping you safeguard your brand’s reputation and value.
Trademark vs. Copyright
Trademarks and copyrights are both intellectual property (IP) protection forms but serve different purposes. While trademarks protect branding elements, copyrights protect creative works such as books, music, and artwork.
What Can Be Trademarked?
You can trademark many things, including:
- Names - Business names, product names, or even personal names that are essential brand features.
- Logos - Unique designs that represent your brand visually
- Slogans - Catchy phrases connected to your products or services
- Taglines - Memorable lines that represent what your brand stands for
Other creative elements, such as specific packaging designs or even sounds (think the famous MGM lion roar or McDonald's "I'm Lovin' It" jingle), can be trademarked.
Use in Commerce vs. Intent to Use
When applying for a trademark, you will need to specify whether your mark is currently in use or if you intend to use it in the future. Use in commerce means that your brand name, logo, or another mark is already used on products or services sold in the marketplace. Intent to use means that while you are not currently using the mark, you plan to do so soon.
How Long Do Trademarks Last?
Federal trademarks remain valid for 10 years. You may renew it for an additional 10-year period as long as you continue to use and maintain the trademark. State trademarks may also last for up to 10 years. The exact period varies by state.
Are you ready to protect your brand with a trademark? Our trademark application services can help you navigate the process smoothly and affordably. Reach out to SharkMark today to get started on securing your intellectual property!
Trademarking Shouldn't Be Complicated
Five-Star Reviews From Other Busy Founders
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“We used this team to get our trademark approved. They communicate very well and keep you in the loop every step of the way.”- Former Client
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“Working with them was an absolute pleasure! They made the trademark application process easy to understand and stress-free. We were able to achieve a quick turnaround time in getting my trademark registered within days.”- Iesha L.
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“Excellent service, rapid responses and friendly. I highly recommend SharkMark for your trademark registration!”- Dean S.
Skip the LEgal Headaches
Big Brand Protection, Startup-Friendly Pricing
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Simple & Affordable
No lawyers, no confusing legal jargon—just easy, budget-friendly trademark services designed for entrepreneurs.
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Fast & Hassle-Free
Get your trademark filed quickly with a streamlined process built for busy founders and startups.
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DIY-Friendly, with Backup
Handle your trademark on your terms, but if you ever need legal help, we can connect you with an attorney.
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Ongoing Brand Protection
We don’t just file your trademark—we help you monitor and renew it, so your brand stays protected.
The Benefits of Registering a Trademark
Trademarks can be invaluable for brands of all kinds. They prevent others in the same (or a similar) industry from using confusingly similar marks, helping you secure your edge in the marketplace.
Below are further details about the benefits of registering a trademark:
- Legal protection - With a registered trademark, you can prevent others from using your mark without your permission. This gives you the power to take action against infringers who may harm your brand or reputation.
- Exclusivity - A registered trademark is exclusively yours within the industries in which it is registered. Competitors cannot use it without risking legal consequences.
- Nationwide coverage - Federal trademarks are valid throughout the US, giving you protection no matter where your business takes you.
- Establishing recognition and trust - Your trademarked branding elements become synonymous with your products or services, making it easier for customers to identify and trust them.
The Trademark Application Process: Step-by-Step
Before applying for a trademark, conducting a thorough search is essential to ensure your trademark doesn’t conflict with existing marks. This helps minimize the risk of rejection or legal complications. Once you’re confident that your trademark is available, you can file your application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) or the relevant state office.
Step 1: Trademark Search
Start by searching federal, state, and common law trademarks to ensure that your mark is unique. This reduces the risk of conflicts during the application process. You can learn more about conducting a trademark search on our Trademark Search page.
Step 2: Filing the Application
After confirming that your trademark is available, you can submit your application to the USPTO. This includes providing detailed information about the trademark, its associated goods or services, and the filing basis (either in commerce or intent to use).
Step 3: Examination by USPTO
The USPTO assigns an examining attorney to review your application. The attorney checks for any conflicts with existing trademarks and ensures the application meets all legal requirements. This review process may take several months.
Step 4: Office Actions and Responses
If the USPTO finds issues with your application, it will issue an office action, which outlines the reasons for rejection. You will have the opportunity to respond and address these issues to keep your application moving forward.
Step 5: Publication and Registration
Once your application is approved, it is published in the USPTO's Official Gazette, giving others 30 days to oppose the registration. If no opposition is filed or any disputes are resolved, the USPTO will proceed with your registration. For trademarks filed with the intent to use in commerce, you’ll need to submit a Statement of Use (SOU) before the trademark is officially registered.
With expereinced assistance, the trademark application process becomes much more manageable, allowing you to focus on building your business while we handle the legal details.
Don’t wait to protect your brand—contact SharkMark now to start your trademark application. Our expert team is here to guide you through every step. Call (463) 223-9869 or connect with us online to begin your trademark application process today!
Register Your Trademark with Help from SharkMark
Your branding's elements are essential for your recognition, reputation, and success. They deserve protection, and SharkMark is here to help you get it. We have simplified all things to do with trademarks, from searches and applications to monitoring. Reach out today to learn about our offerings.
For affordable trademark application services, we are the company to count on. Call (463) 223-9869 or contact us online.
A trademark is your business's best investment. SharkMark offers legal protection for your brand, minus the red tape.