USTMG | FAQs | US Trademark Guru

FAQs

Commonly Asked Questions

We’ve gathered the most common questions about our services and provided clear answers to help you make informed decisions.

Will I receive a certificate after registration?

Yes, once your trademark is approved and registered, the USPTO will issue an official certificate of registration, confirming your legal ownership.
What if I make a mistake on my application?

Mistakes can delay or jeopardize your registration. That’s why we review all information carefully and handle the preparation for you. If an issue arises, we assist with corrections or responses.
Can someone oppose my trademark application?

Yes, after your application is published, others have 30 days to oppose it if they believe it conflicts with their existing trademark. We can help you understand and respond if that happens.
Can multiple people own a trademark?

Yes, trademarks can have joint owners. However, shared ownership must be clearly defined in writing, and both parties should agree on how the trademark will be used and maintained.
What are “likelihood of confusion” refusals?

This occurs when the USPTO believes your trademark is too similar to an existing registered trademark and may confuse consumers. A proper search beforehand helps avoid this.
Can I use my trademark while the application is pending?

Yes, you can use the ™ symbol while your trademark is pending. However, you cannot use the ® symbol until your trademark is officially registered with the USPTO.

What databases do you search?

We search the USPTO, state trademark registries, business name databases, common law databases, domain name registries, and more. For global packages, we also search WIPO and regional databases such as the EUIPO. This ensures you’re covered both legally and geographically for future expansion or enforcement.
Will I get a report of the results?

Yes. We provide a detailed, easy-to-understand PDF report summarizing any conflicting or similar trademarks we found. The report includes risk levels, match details, and recommendations on whether to proceed with your proposed mark or explore alternatives. It’s a valuable tool in making informed branding decisions.
What if I want help after the search?

We’re happy to assist beyond the search. We offer trademark registration services, monitoring, office action responses, and more. If you’d like help filing your trademark or taking the next steps, our team is here to guide you.
Will this search show inactive or abandoned trademarks?

Yes. Our search reports include both active and inactive trademarks. This helps you understand the history of similar marks and whether a previously used name may still pose a risk due to residual brand recognition, common law rights, or revival potential.
Is the comprehensive search refundable if I decide not to file?

Since the search involves expert time and resources, it is generally non-refundable. However, you keep the full report, which remains useful if you decide to file later or explore other names. Our team can also help you pivot with follow-up options.

How accurate is the free trademark search?

The free search provides a general overview based on publicly available data. While it helps spot obvious conflicts, it may not detect similar-sounding or visually similar trademarks. For a comprehensive analysis, a detailed trademark search is recommended.
Is the free trademark search legally binding?

No, a free search is informational only and does not replace a legal trademark clearance. It cannot guarantee registration approval or protection from infringement claims.
Is this search enough to file a trademark application?

While helpful, a free search is not sufficient for most filings. It’s best used as a preliminary step before investing in a full trademark search or proceeding with registration.
Do I need to provide my personal information to use the free search?

Usually, you’ll need to enter your name and email to receive your results. We do not share or sell your information, and you can opt out of future communication at any time.
Does the free search show pending trademark applications?

Yes, it typically includes both live trademarks and pending applications that could affect your ability to register a similar name.

What types of Office Actions are there?

There are generally two types: Non-Final Office Actions and Final Office Actions. Non-Final Office Actions are the first notice of issues and give you an opportunity to correct or argue. Final Office Actions come if the examiner isn’t satisfied with the initial response and require stronger arguments or appeals. Both types require timely, strategic responses to avoid abandonment of your trademark application.
Can I handle an Office Action on my own?

Yes, you technically can, but it’s often risky. Office Actions involve specific legal and procedural language, and missing details or submitting weak arguments can harm your chances of approval. By working with professionals experienced in trademark law, you gain the advantage of clear strategies, strong legal reasoning, and a higher likelihood of success in overcoming examiner objections.
How much does it cost to respond to an Office Action?

Our flat fee for Office Action Responses is $399. This covers a complete review, expert drafting, and filing of your response with the USPTO. Unlike hiring expensive law firms that may charge hourly rates, our service offers transparent, affordable pricing with no hidden fees. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying upfront to resolve your trademark Office Action efficiently.
Will responding to an Office Action guarantee approval?

No service can guarantee USPTO approval, as the outcome depends on the examiner’s final decision. However, our expertise and detailed responses significantly improve your chances of success. We use proven strategies and persuasive arguments that maximize the likelihood of overcoming objections, helping your application continue toward registration with minimal risk of abandonment.
What happens after you file my response?

After filing, the USPTO will review your response. If the examiner is satisfied, your application moves closer to approval and publication. If not, the USPTO may issue a Final Office Action or request further clarification. In either case, we’ll keep you informed of updates and guide the next steps to continue pursuing your trademark registration.

Why do I need trademark monitoring if I already registered my trademark?

Registering your trademark is only the first step. It gives you exclusive rights, but it doesn’t automatically stop others from trying to use or register similar marks. Without monitoring, you may not know when infringers appear. Monitoring helps detect risks early, giving you the power to enforce your rights, protect your reputation, and safeguard the value of your brand.
What platforms and databases do you monitor?

We monitor a wide range of sources to give you full protection. This includes federal databases like the USPTO, state-level trademark filings, common law sources, online marketplaces, and global trademark records. We also keep an eye on digital platforms where brand misuse often occurs. By covering multiple channels, we ensure no potential infringement slips past unnoticed.
How will I receive alerts about potential infringements?

Whenever our monitoring system detects something that may conflict with your trademark, you’ll receive a clear, detailed report directly in your email. These reports explain what was found, why it matters, and what steps you might consider taking. Our goal is to provide data and actionable insights that help you protect your brand effectively.
Can I customize what my monitoring covers?

Yes, absolutely. We understand that every business has different priorities. You can tailor the service to focus on specific keywords, industries, or types of risks. For example, you may want to focus more on online marketplace monitoring or international filings. By customizing the coverage, you get the most relevant alerts to your brand and goals.
Can I start monitoring even if my trademark is pending?

Yes, and it’s actually a smart move. Even if your trademark is not fully registered yet, monitoring helps you detect conflicting filings that may impact your application. By catching these early, you may be able to oppose problematic filings or strengthen your case. Starting monitoring while pending gives you extra protection and peace of mind during the registration process.

Do I need to register unpublished works?

Yes, you can register unpublished works, and it’s often a smart move. Registration provides a clear record of ownership from the start, making it easier to enforce your rights if infringement occurs later. Whether your work is published or unpublished, registration gives you stronger protection and ensures you are legally prepared before sharing it publicly.
Can I update or transfer ownership after registration?

Yes, copyright ownership can be transferred or assigned after registration. This is common when selling a business, licensing work, or collaborating with partners. Our Professional package includes personalized transfer and assignment documentation, so you can manage ownership changes easily. Updating your records ensures your copyright remains valid and enforceable under the correct owner’s name.
Do I need to send a physical copy of my work?

Most applications allow for digital submission of your work, which makes the process faster and easier. In some cases, such as certain visual or physical works, the U.S. Copyright Office may require a physical copy. Our team guides you through the exact submission requirements based on your work type, ensuring your application is complete and accepted.
What if I co-created a work with someone else?

When two or more people contribute to a work, it’s considered a joint work. All creators share ownership unless otherwise agreed. Registration can list multiple authors, and each co-owner has equal rights to use and license the work. We assist in registering joint works and can also prepare transfer or assignment documents if ownership terms need clarification.
How does expedited registration work?

Expedited or “special handling” registration is available for urgent cases, such as pending lawsuits or the need to enforce rights quickly. The U.S. Copyright Office charges additional fees, but the application can be processed in as little as a few weeks. Our Professional package includes 24-hour application preparation, so your filing can be submitted immediately for priority handling.

Got Questions? We've Got Answers.

Commonly Asked Questions

Will I receive a certificate after registration?

What if I make a mistake on my application?

Can someone oppose my trademark application?

Can multiple people own a trademark?

What are “likelihood of confusion” refusals?

Can I use my trademark while the application is pending?

What databases do you search?

Will I get a report of the results?

What if I want help after the search?

Will this search show inactive or abandoned trademarks?

Is the comprehensive search refundable if I decide not to file?

How accurate is the free trademark search?

Is the free trademark search legally binding?

Is this search enough to file a trademark application?

Do I need to provide my personal information to use the free search?

Does the free search show pending trademark applications?

What types of Office Actions are there?

Can I handle an Office Action on my own?

How much does it cost to respond to an Office Action?

Will responding to an Office Action guarantee approval?

What happens after you file my response?

Why do I need trademark monitoring if I already registered my trademark?

What platforms and databases do you monitor?

How will I receive alerts about potential infringements?

Can I customize what my monitoring covers?

Can I start monitoring even if my trademark is pending?

Do I need to register unpublished works?

Can I update or transfer ownership after registration?

Do I need to send a physical copy of my work?

What if I co-created a work with someone else?

How does expedited registration work?

Talk to Our Trademark Experts Today

Got Questions? We've Got Answers.

Commonly Asked Questions

Will I receive a certificate after registration?

What if I make a mistake on my application?

Can someone oppose my trademark application?

Can multiple people own a trademark?

What are “likelihood of confusion” refusals?

Can I use my trademark while the application is pending?

What databases do you search?

Will I get a report of the results?

What if I want help after the search?

Will this search show inactive or abandoned trademarks?

Is the comprehensive search refundable if I decide not to file?

How accurate is the free trademark search?

Is the free trademark search legally binding?

Is this search enough to file a trademark application?

Do I need to provide my personal information to use the free search?

Does the free search show pending trademark applications?

What types of Office Actions are there?

Can I handle an Office Action on my own?

How much does it cost to respond to an Office Action?

Will responding to an Office Action guarantee approval?

What happens after you file my response?

Why do I need trademark monitoring if I already registered my trademark?

What platforms and databases do you monitor?

How will I receive alerts about potential infringements?

Can I customize what my monitoring covers?

Can I start monitoring even if my trademark is pending?

Do I need to register unpublished works?

Can I update or transfer ownership after registration?

Do I need to send a physical copy of my work?

What if I co-created a work with someone else?

How does expedited registration work?

Talk to Our Trademark Experts Today

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