Looking to come up with a domain names and slogan for my website.
Question:
I am looking to come up with a domain name for my new website. The goal of this domain is to help the site develop into a brand. That the name will be memorable for users to come back and remember. I have hired a professional company that specializes in coming up with these names as well as slogans for me to use. The concern is that when they provide me with this list to choose from of names to use that another company somewhere in the world is using that name. I need your advice on how I should avoid this problem.
Los Angeles, CA
Answer:
To avoid the issue of trademark infringement by adopting a brand name and domain name that someone else is using, the best practice is to conduct a trademark search and clearance report, and receive consultation from an experienced trademark attorney on the trademark-ability of the brand of your choice. Assuming the mark is protectable, the attorney can advise you on securing trademark registration, domain names, and social media properties under the chosen moniker, and prepare and file the trademark registration with the United States Patent and Trademark Office.
Other relevant considerations may include the company business plan, website development strategy, and the revenue model.
Author: David N. Sharifi, Esq. is a Los Angeles based intellectual property attorney and technology startup consultant with focuses in entertainment law, emerging technologies, trademark protection, and “the internet of things”. David was recognized as one of the Top 30 Most Influential Attorneys in Digital Media and E-Commerce Law by the Los Angeles Business Journal in 2014. Office: Ph: 310-751-0181; david@latml.com.
Disclaimer: The content above is a discussion of legal issues and general information; it does not constitute legal advice and should not be used as such without seeking professional legal counsel. Reading the content above does not create an attorney-client relationship. All trademarks are the property of L.A. Tech & Media Law Firm or their respective owners. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved.
