Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you represent me if I don’t live in your state?
Trademarks are a Federal practice, so it does not matter which state you are in. We work with clients from across the nation and the globe!
2. How long before you start working on my file?
After we receive your (i) agreement (ii) payment and (iii) intake form we start working on your file within 5 business days.
3. What does the onboarding process look like?
When you agree to retain us, we will send you (i) an attorney client agreement for electronic signature (ii) an invoice and (iii) an intake form/ questionnaire. We need all of these to begin work on your file and establish you as a client.
4. When will I receive my search and opinion letter?
Search report and opinion letters are sent within 14 days after we have received all the necessary onboarding documents, including the intake form.
5. What happens after I receive my search and opinion letter?
Your search and opinion letter will identify the risk of your proposed mark. This risk can be high, moderate or low. After you read the report, please let us know if you would like to proceed with filing your trademark.
6. Where do trademark applications get filed?
Trademarks are filed with the United States Trademark and Patent Office (USPTO). An Examining Attorney (EA) is assigned to your trademark file.
7. How long before I hear back on my trademark application from the USPTO?
The USPTO is taking anywhere from 4-6 months to review applications. Your application will still be queued and held in line.
8. I received an office action, what does that mean?
An office action is just a request for more information from the USPTO. Office Actions can range from a simple disclaimer to a refusal. We will guide you through this process and ensure you understand it each step of the way! These are very common and nothing to fret over.
9. Can I call the Examining Attorney?
When you are represented the USPTO will not speak to you. They will talk to your attorney that is appointed on your file.
10. Will I receive updates on my file?
Once your Trademark is filed with the USPTO it can take a while before we hear anything from the USPTO. But we will always update you on your file AND you can always reach out and ask us for an update at any time!
11. What does a “Flat Fee” Trademark mean?
We don’t believe in nickel and dining people, or tacking every little minute. What that means is that when you pay the Flat Fee full Trademark Service + Filing Fee you get the 1. Search and Analysis 2. Opinion Letter 3. Filing of the Trademark and 4. Docketing (watching) all deadlines and 5. Communicating with the USPTO on your behalf (i.e. being your lawyer and taking the work off of you!
12. What is the search, analysis and opinion letter?
This is where we dig deep. We not only search the trademark database, but we look for anything that sounds similar, looks similar or could be confused with your proposed trademark. We also analyze the name of your trademark for other potential refusals, like the name being considered too descriptive or generic. You will receive an opinion letter and a detailed search report with this information, and potentially an email with more of an explanation if applicable.