Posts Tagged: "trademarking your name"

The Perils of Being Your Own Trademark Attorney

Trademark owners who attempt to file and prosecute their own trademark applications are really being pennywise and pound foolish. I appreciate the reasons for filing your own trademark applications, particularly in this economy. Many times, trademark owners are small companies in their infancy, or individuals that are trying to minimize legal fees while attempting to obtain valuable trademark protection. Nevertheless, there is significant long term damage that can be caused by filing your own trademark, or relying on a one-size-fits-all service provided by non-attorneys.

Mark Malek

May 16, 2012

Trademarking of Sarah Palin, You Can Trademark Your Name

The Trademark act of 1946 specifically allows a person to obtain a trademark in her name provided the proposed name mark meets certain criteria. And the Trademark Manual of Examining Procedure (“TMEP”) tells you what those criteria are. As shocking as it may sound, people trademark their names all the time. It’s pretty much standard operating procedure for celebrities and athletes. Granted, it is a bit uncommon for politicians, but it’s not unheard of. Besides, last time I checked, Governor Palin is no longer serving in public office and is more of a public figure anyway, so what’s with the hullabaloo?

Beth Hutchens

February 11, 2011