Here’s what could happen if you launch or keep operating without a proper trademark clearance search:
- Valid cease-and-desist letters from another business or trademark owner
- Forced rebranding, including a new name, logo, packaging, website, and more (and to meet someone else’s deadline)
- Loss of customer trust, or customer confusion, if your brand suddenly changes
- Legal fees to fight or settle an infringement claim
- Unobtainable trademark registration if someone else beats you to it
The worst part? You may not hear about the problem until your business is gaining traction, which right when it’s hardest to rebrand. I have some older posts that go into more details about why forced rebranding is a nightmare and what it can cost a business in money and consumer confidence.
If you’re launching, growing, or just unsure whether your business/brand name or your logo are truly protected, let’s talk. I help entrepreneurs across the U.S. make smart, legally sound decisions about names and logos.
If you’d like to consult with me, you can use my contact form or book a consultation online at kingpatentlaw.com or by calling my office at 312-596-2222 or 217-714-8558.
Please check out the other posts and pages on my website for more information on trademarks and other intellectual property and business law issues.
