Trademark infringement, also known as brand infringement, refers to the unauthorized use of a trademark or service mark in a way that may cause confusion, deception, or dilution of the trademark owner's rights. This can include copying or imitating a trademark, using a similar mark in a different market, or using a well-known brand name without permission.
A trademark violation occurs when someone uses a registered trademark or service mark without the owner's consent. This can include copying someone else's logo or product design, using their company name or slogan, or selling products that bear their trademarks.
Copyright law protects original works of authorship, such as books, music, and artwork. It gives creators exclusive rights to reproduce and distribute their works, as well as create derivative works based on them.
Patent law protects inventions and discoveries. It gives inventors the exclusive right to make and sell their inventions for a certain period of time.
To protect your trademark from infringement, you should register it with the appropriate government agency. Once registered, you can take legal action against anyone who uses your mark without permission.
Trademark owners can take legal action against infringers by filing a lawsuit in federal court. They may be able to obtain an injunction preventing further use of their marks and damages for any harm caused by the infringement.
Trademark protection lasts as long as the mark is in use and remains distinctive. However, registration must be renewed periodically to maintain protection.
