Best Florida Trademark Services to Protect Your Brand 2024

The Best Trademark Services in Florida

Best Trademark Services in Florida: In the business environment of Florida, protecting your brand becomes increasingly essential as businesses compete in the marketplace. To start an LLC in Florida and ensure your brand’s long-term success and recognition, enlisting the help of the best trademark services is an important step. These services assist entrepreneurs and established businesses in securing their unique trademarks, preventing potential disputes, and maintain their competitive edge.

In this article, we will explore the Best Trademark Services in Florida, highlighting their key features and outlining how they can help businesses of all sizes reach new heights in today’s competitive landscape.

Through thorough research and market study, Webinarcare Editorial Team selects these trademark service providers. You must cross-check all the factors before choosing the right one for your Florida business.

What Are Trademark Services?

Trademark services are professional assistance providers that help businesses like Florida Corporations, LLCs, and individuals protect their brand names, logos, slogans, and other intellectual property through trademark registration. The services include trademark search, application and filing, monitoring, renewal and maintenance, and legal support. We reviewed some of the best trademark services and provided features as an add-on with their packages.

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$599 + Federal Fee

  • Trademark Search

  • Trademark Registration

  • Trademark monitoring

$239.99/year

  • Single Subscription

  • Trademark Registration

  • Attorney service for Trademark

Trademark Search

This involves conducting a comprehensive search of existing trademarks to determine if your desired trademark is already in use or if it is too similar to an existing trademark. This is a crucial step in the registration process as it helps avoid potential legal disputes and infringement claims.

If you would like to search on existing trademarks in Florida, Florida Secretary of State trademark search tool will help you with that. 

Trademark Application Preparation and Filing 

Trademark services providers can help draft and file your trademark application with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) or the relevant trademark office in your country. They ensure that your application meets all the necessary requirements, increasing the chances of successful registration.

You can check out the other State Trademark Information Links for more information about other trademark search tools in the United States.

Trademark Monitoring

Once your trademark is registered, trademark services can help monitor its use in the marketplace to identify potential infringements or unauthorized uses. This is essential to maintain the strength and value of your intellectual property.

Once you’ve filed your application, you can monitor its status using the USPTO’s Trademark Status and Document Retrieval (TSDR) system. You should regularly check the status of your application, as the USPTO may issue “Office Actions,” requiring you to provide additional information or address issues within a specified time frame.

If the USPTO issues an Office Action, you must respond within the given deadline, typically six months. Failure to respond may result in the abandonment of your application. Once your trademark is published in the Official Gazette, third parties have 30 days to file an opposition if they believe it infringes on their rights. If an opposition is filed, you must address the concerns and defend your trademark in the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (TTAB).

You can check out the Florida Trademark Search if there are unauthorized uses of your chosen trademark. 

Trademark Renewal and Maintenance

Trademark registrations need to be renewed periodically to remain in force. Trademark services can assist with the renewal process, ensuring that your registration does not lapse and your trademark rights remain protected.

Maintain and renew your trademark: To keep your trademark registration active, you must file maintenance documents and pay the required fees regularly. The first maintenance filing is due between the 5th and 6th year after registration, followed by a second filing between the 9th and 10th year, and subsequent filings every ten years after that.

Legal Support 

Some trademark services providers also offer legal support in case of disputes, infringement claims, or oppositions to your trademark registration for your Florida LLC. It is better to consult with Florida Business Attorney regarding legal matters. 

While it’s possible to file for a trademark on your own, the process can be complex, and mistakes may result in delays or the rejection of your application. Many businesses work with a trademark attorney or service provider to help navigate the process and ensure the best possible outcome.

If you are in favor of having trademark service for your Florida LLC, you should be aware that the costs of forming an LLC in Florida takes around $125, which you can pay in GA Secretary of State.

The Best Trademark Services in Florida

Trademark Services are really important in Florida. We have provided the best trademark services for your Florida business in this article.

1. LegalZoom

new legalzoom logo

LegalZoom is one of the most well-known and reputable providers of online legal services, including Trademark Registration. They offer a comprehensive range of trademark services, including trademark search, application filing, and monitoring. LegalZoom’s experienced attorneys and professionals will guide you through the process, ensuring your trademark application is accurate and complete.

trademark registration

Their trademark registration package includes the following;

  • Federal Trademark Search – Starts at $199
  • Trademark Registration – $599 + Federal Fees
  • Trademark Monitoring – $175 per year

LegalZoom offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, meaning they will refund your money if you’re unsatisfied with their services. They also provide trademark monitoring costs of $175/year. You can check out Webinarcare Editorial Team’s LegalZoom Review if you are still undecided whether you will get LegalZoom for your trademark registration.

2. Rocket Lawyer

rocketlawyer

Rocket Lawyer is another popular online legal services provider that offers Trademark Registration assistance. Their trademark services include trademark search, application preparation and filing, and unlimited customer support from their legal professionals.

rocketlawyer trademark price
how to file in rocketlawyer

Rocket Lawyer’s trademark registration package includes a comprehensive federal, state, and common law trademark search, application preparation and filing, and ongoing support throughout the registration process. They also offer a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, allowing you to request a refund if unsatisfied with their services within the first 30 days. Also, check out the RocketLawyer Review if you want to choose RocketLawyer for your trademark registration.

3. Gerben Law

gerben logo

Gerben Law is a boutique intellectual property law firm specializing in trademark services. Founded in 2008 by trademark attorney Josh Gerben, the firm has helped thousands of clients register and protect their trademarks in the United States and worldwide.

gerben

Gerben Law offers a $350 UPSTO filing fee per class and a $1,500 trademark registration package (plus government fees) that includes the following;

  • Federal Trademark Search using CORSEARCH software
  • State Trademark Search using CORSEARCH software
  • Common Law Trademark Search
  • Attorney Consultation Time
  • Drafting and Filing of Trademark Application
  • Responding to Non-Substantive Office Actions
  • Sending Registration Certificate

They also provide free consultations, allowing you to speak with an experienced trademark attorney before committing to their services. You can start registering a trademark by visiting their website.

4. Trademark Engine

Trademark Engine is an online trademark services provider that offers affordable and straightforward trademark registration assistance. Their services include federal and state search, federal, state & common law, and global U.S. & international search. Here is the list of Trademark Engine plans to look out for.

  • Federal and State Search – $149
  • Federal, State, and Common Law – $299
  • Global U.S and Internation Search – $499
trademark engine

Trademark Engine offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee, allowing you to request a refund if unsatisfied with their services. You may click the button to learn more about their services, and the trademark engine will offer you the best trademark services for your business.

5. My Brand Mark

mbm logo

My Brand Mark is a trademark services provider helping businesses and entrepreneurs protect their brand identity through trademark registration. Their services include trademark search, application filing, and monitoring. The service costs $799, including government filing fees of $250 per international class.

mybrandmark

My Brand Mark’s trademark registration package includes a comprehensive trademark search, application preparation, filing with the USPTO and ongoing monitoring of your trademark’s status. They also offer a 100% money-back guarantee if the USPTO does not approve your trademark application.

Step-By-Step Guide to Registering a Trademark

Filing for a trademark in the U.S. involves several steps. Here’s a general outline of the process:

  • Step 1: Determine if a trademark is appropriate for your intellectual property: Trademarks protect brand names, logos, slogans, and other distinctive symbols associated with your business. They do not protect ideas, inventions, or creative works. Make sure that what you want to protect is a suitable candidate for trademark registration.
  • Step 2: Conduct a trademark search: Before filing for a trademark, it’s essential to perform a comprehensive search to determine if your desired trademark is already in use or too similar to an existing trademark. You can start by searching the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS) database. Search state trademark databases based on the state trademark information links and conduct a general internet search to identify potential conflicts.
  • Step 3: Identify the appropriate class(es) of goods or services: Trademarks are registered under specific classes representing the goods or services related to the mark. You need to choose the correct class or classes for your trademark. The USPTO follows the International Classification of Goods and Services, comprising 45 classes.
  • Step 4: Prepare and file your trademark application: You can file your trademark application online using the USPTO’s Trademark Electronic Application System (TEAS). There are three TEAS forms: TEAS Plus, TEAS Standard, and TEAS RF (Reduced Fee). Each form has different requirements and fees. You’ll need to provide information such as the trademark owner’s name and address, a clear representation of the trademark, a description of the goods or services associated with the trademark, and the appropriate class(es) of goods or services. Additionally, you may need to submit a “specimen” showing the trademark’s use in commerce.
  • Step 5: Pay the appropriate fees: The filing fees for a trademark application vary depending on the type of TEAS form you choose. As of October 2021, the fees are $250 for TEAS Plus, $350 for TEAS Standard, and $275 for TEAS RF. These fees are non-refundable, regardless of whether your trademark is approved.
  • Step 6: Receive your trademark registration: If your application is approved and no oppositions are filed (or if you successfully defend against any oppositions), the USPTO will issue a registration certificate for your trademark. This process can take several months to a year or longer, depending on your application’s complexity and any issues arising during the examination.

While it’s possible to file for a trademark on your own, the process can be complex, and mistakes may result in delays or the rejection of your application. Many businesses work with a trademark attorney or service provider to help navigate the process and ensure the best possible outcome.

Why Is Florida Trademark Registration Required?

Trademark registration in Florida is one way to protect your brand legally. Your company’s logo, digital images, slogan, and visual identity must be secure. This safeguards your brand name, logo, and slogan against unauthorized use.

Trademark registration is not required. You can operate your brand without a trademark reservation. However, it is recommended that you register your trademark to avoid future confusion. Your brand will be legally protected.

What Kinds of Things Can Be Trademarked?

  • Company name
  • Digital image, logo
  • Tagline, slogan
  • Drawing or design
  • Sound

Trademark Security

In Florida, you must register your brand with the USPTO to legally protect your trademark. Along with registering your trademark, you must also legally protect it. There are three ways to safeguard your trademark. These are as follows:

Common Law

Using a brand name, logo, or other similar things without registering it is considered a common law trademark. You can obtain Common Law Trademark protection by registering your mark. In this case, your trademark rights will be limited to the area/region where you operate your business.

Trademark Protection at the Federal Level

Your trademark will be protected nationwide in this case. You can operate your Florida business nationally once you have protected your trademark. Your brand will be safeguarded across the country.

Protection for State Trademarks

State trademark protection grants you rights only within the state. Because the brand name or logo is not protected outside of the state, others can use or register it.

Can I Register My Own Trademark?

You can register your trademark by submitting your application and filing the fee to the US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). While this may save you money, remember that a small error or oversight can be costly, so using an attorney or trademark registration service is usually a good idea.

How Long Does It Take To Register a Trademark?

Depending on the potential issues that may arise, the trademark registration process typically takes between 6 and 12 months. Although some applications are approved in much less time, it is best to expect a longer wait; the USPTO receives hundreds of thousands of trademark applications each year, which increases processing time. In addition, the trademark office may request additional documentation or communication. As a result, applicants should be prepared to provide all requested information as soon as possible to expedite the registration process.

FAQs

What are the best trademark services available specifically in Florida?
There are many great trademark services available in Florida, but some of the top options include LegalZoom, Gerben Law Firm, and Central Florida Intellectual Property.
What makes trademark services in Florida unique?
Trademark services in Florida are unique because of the state’s particular laws, regulations, and filing requirements.
Do I need a trademark lawyer in Florida?
It’s not required to hire a lawyer for trademark registration in Florida, but it may be helpful to ensure your application is submitted correctly and meets the state’s guidelines.
Can I conduct a trademark search in Florida?
Yes, you can conduct a trademark search in Florida through the Florida Department of State’s Division of Corporations.
How much does it cost to register a trademark in Florida?
The cost to register a trademark in Florida is $87.50 for one class of goods or services, with an additional $87.50 for each additional class.
What is a trademark specimen, and do I need to file one in Florida?
A trademark specimen is a visual representation of how you plan to use your trademark. You may need to file one in Florida based on the specifics of your registration application.
What is a trademark owner’s source of origin in Florida?
A trademark owner’s source of origin in Florida is the company or individual responsible for creating, producing, and distributing the goods or services associated with the trademark.
What is a trademark class in Florida?
A trademark class in Florida is a category of goods or services protected by your trademark.
Can I register a trademark in Florida if I operate my business outside the state?
Yes, you can register a trademark in Florida even if you operate your business outside the state’s borders.
What types of trademarks are eligible for registration in Florida?
Any trademark that is unique, not too similar to existing trademarks, and used in association with goods or services may be eligible for registration in Florida.
Can I transfer my trademark ownership in Florida?
Yes, you can transfer your trademark ownership in Florida.
How often do I need to renew my trademark in Florida?
You need to renew your trademark registration in Florida every 5 years.
Can I register a sound or color as a trademark in Florida?
Yes, in Florida, you can register a sound or color as a trademark as long as you are using them in association with goods or services.
What is a state trademark and how does it differ from a federal trademark in Florida?
A state trademark is a trademark registered with the state of Florida, while a federal trademark is granted by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and provides protection throughout the United States.
Can I trademark a business name in Florida?
Yes, you can trademark a business name in Florida as long as it meets the state’s requirements and is used in association with goods or services.
How long does it take to get a trademark in Florida?
It typically takes around six to eight months to get a trademark in Florida.
Can I use my trademark before filing my application in Florida?
Yes, you can use your trademark before filing your application in Florida as long as you intend to use it in association with goods or services.
Can I file a trademark application online in Florida?
Yes, you can file a trademark application online in Florida through the Division of Corporations’ Sunbiz system.
What happens if my trademark registration is denied in Florida?
If your trademark registration is denied in Florida, you can file an appeal or make changes to your application and try again.
Why would my trademark registration be denied in Florida?
Your trademark registration might be denied in Florida if it does not meet the state’s requirements or is too similar to existing trademarks.
Do I need to renew my federal trademark registration if I already renewed my state registration in Florida?
Even if you already renewed your state registration in Florida, you still need to renew your federal trademark registration separately.
Can a trademark be invalidated in Florida?
Yes, a trademark can be invalidated in Florida under certain circumstances, such as if it was obtained fraudulently or if it becomes generic in usage.
Can I transfer my registered trademark to another state in Florida?
Yes, you can transfer your registered trademark to another state in Florida by filing the appropriate paperwork.
What is a trademark evaluation in Florida?
A trademark evaluation in Florida is a process to determine if your trademark is strong, distinctive, and meets the state’s requirements for registration.
Is it necessary to conduct a trademark clearance search in Florida?
It’s strongly recommended to conduct a trademark clearance search in Florida to ensure your trademark is not too similar to existing ones.
What is a trademark declaration of use in Florida?
A trademark declaration of use in Florida is a mandatory statement filed by trademark holders describing the use of the trademark and its association with goods or services.
Can I renew my registration after it expires in Florida?
Yes, you can renew your registration after it expires in Florida as long as it is not more than one year past its due date.
Is it necessary to monitor my trademark in Florida?
It is crucial to monitor your trademark in Florida to ensure no one is using it without your authorization or infringing on your trademark rights.
Who are the best trademark services providers in Florida?
Some of the best trademark services providers in Florida include LegalZoom, The Florida Bar, and The Law Office of Larry C. Schumacher, P.A.
What are the benefits of using a trademark service in Florida?
A trademark service will help you register your trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and protect it from infringement, maximizing your legal rights and possibly preventing you from losing sales, clients, or brand recognition.
Do I need a lawyer to get a trademark in Florida?
No, you can file a trademark application with the USPTO on your own, but hiring a trademark attorney in Florida may help you avoid costly mistakes and increase your chances of approval.
Do I need to be a Florida resident to get a trademark in Florida?
No, you can apply for a trademark from anywhere in the world , even if you don’t have a U.S. citizenship or residency.
What kind of marks can be registered as trademarks in Florida?
The USPTO only registers marks that are recognizable as an indicator of goods or services provided by a particular source, including words, names, designs, numbers, colors, sounds, and even scents in some cases.
What is the difference between a trademark and a service mark in Florida?
A trademark pertains to a product or group of products and is recognized by the symbol “TM”, whereas a service mark pertains to a service or group of services and is recognized by the symbol “SM”.
How do I perform a trademark search in Florida?
You can perform a preliminary search of the USPTO’s online database for free, or you can use a trained service provider, lawyer or document preparation service find out if there are prior conflicting marks.
Can I trademark a name or slogan that someone else already uses in Florida?
No, if someone else uses a name or slogan that is too similar or identical to yours in the same or similar industry, they may oppose or cancel your trademark.
How do I enforce my trademark rights in Florida?
You can send a cease and desist letter, hire an attorney in Florida, or file a lawsuit for trademark infringement or dilution in federal court to protect and pursue damages for your mark.
Do I need to renew my trademark in Florida?
Yes, once your trademark is registered with the USPTO it gives you the exclusive right to use that mark for 10 years and may then be renewed perpetually every 10 years.
What is considered trademark infringement in Florida?
An unauthorized use of someone else’s trademark or a mark confusingly similar thereto in a way that is likely to cause confusion, mistake, or deception among consumers, damaging the trademark owner, can amount to infringement even if the infringer did not intend to infringe.
Can I license or sell my trademark in Florida?
Yes, you can license or sell a trademark to someone else and receive royalties, but first you must ensure it is properly assigned, trademarked or properly registered, and examine to avoid any potential conflicts.
What is a trademark watch service in Florida?
A trademark watch service in Florida generally refers to an ongoing monitoring service that notifies you of any similar new marks that may conflict with or dilute yours as they appear in the USPTO’s records.
Can I apply for a trademark even if my business is not yet operational in Florida?
Yes, you can apply for a trademark as long as you claim to have a bona fide intent to use the mark in commerce in the near future, you may file an “intent to use” based application.
What are common mistakes to avoid when applying for a Florida trademark?
Common mistakes would be filing material misrepresentations about the prior use of the mark or an assertion of rights to use a previously registered owner, submitting an insufficient specimen or having it not properly depicted regionally.
Is registering a trademark valid only in Florida?
No, once you register your trademark with the USPTO, it covers the entire U.S. is not susceptible only to being used in Florida, can be used and protected nationwide.
Can I register a trademark with just the state of Florida for protection?
some marks , that will only be used in Florida could register with the Florida Division of Corporations and mostly be protected under State law, but may result in only creating limited protections with proportionally limited benefits.
Can a USPTO-approved Florida trademark be challenged?
Yes, anyone can challenge a USPTO-approved Florida trademark if he feels the federal authority improperly granted it or believes it is abandoned, misused or dilutive under federal law regulations.
Can a trademark owner force someone to stop using a generic term in Florida?
No, even if a trademark owner received USPTO approval for using a term generically for a product or service, it does not give the right or hold exclusive monopoly of use concerning the general term itself.
What is the difference between a copyright and a trademark in Florida?
Both a copyright and trademark both protect different forms of intellectual property. A copyright protects “original works” including writings, music, artwork, and photographs, whereas Trademarks mainly shield goods and services offered by an individual commercial occupier to allow exact identity as a brand symbol to consumers specifically – slogan, name, logo, taglines.
Are trademark registration documents accessible to everyone in Florida?
Yes, because the USPTO is a Federal agency its electronic trademark concerns registration record are publicly obtainable and available upon request to anyone through online public search portals.
Are there any disadvantages to registering a federal trademark in Florida?
No, registering your trademark, federally will create a much broader range of protection, compared to applying at the state level,which is restricted.
Can a Florida business register a trademark in another country?
Yes, if its use filed and compliant with trademark rules of that country, as a United States’ filing offers no essentially preventive except for rights to streamline the registration process between these countries.
What kinds of trademark services are always recommended in Florida?
Always be best advised to use services with known good reputations, lawyers or document preparation providers in Florida are recommended as they make the registration process hassle-free, reducing the potential for problems down the road, expedient in pulling your date and giving you advice on contentious issues.
Can large corporations or companies benefit more from hiring a trademark service as compared to startups in Florida?
Large corporations and companies may substantially benefit from filing directly, saving a considerable sum of potential lengthy legal expenditures. Meanwhile, smaller businesses benefit from the legal safeguard provided by outside consultation and advice and a proper trademark logo & clearance search avoids any get more costly legal trouble that would arise unintentionally by doing it themselves under lack of guidance.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, protecting your brand identity, products, and services through Florida trademark registration is crucial to any successful business strategy. The best trademark service providers offer comprehensive and reliable assistance, making registering and maintaining your trademark more manageable and efficient. LegalZoom, Rocket Lawyer, Gerben Law Firm, Trademark Engine, and My Brand Mark are some of the top providers in the industry, each offering various features and support to cater to your specific needs.

By investing in the best trademark services in Florida with the assistance of your Registered Agent, you can ensure that your intellectual property is protected, avoid potential legal disputes, and maintain the strength and value of your brand. Whether you’re a small business owner or an entrepreneur, partnering with a reputable trademark services provider can help you navigate the complex world of intellectual property law, safeguarding the future of your Florida business.

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