If you're an entrepreneur, you know that protecting your intellectual property should be high on your list when it comes to safeguarding your company. However, as a successful business owner, you also know the steps and costs of filing a trademark in the U.S. can be expensive and arduous.
This conundrum can be even more overwhelming for new business owners who want to do everything possible to minimize the price of securing trademarks. They try to handle complicated tasks like trademark registration on their own, which can be a big mistake - especially when juggling the day-to-day tasks of running a business. You may be thinking, "But what about those set-it-and-forget-it services you can find online? All you have to do is plug in your info, and you're done." Using pre-made templates for trademark filing can be tempting, but doing so can leave you with inadequate protection and hurt you in the long run.
So, what is the easiest, most cost-effective route to consider that also minimizes legal risk? The truth is, before you spend money on an online filing service, it's best to consult with a trademark attorney working with clients in Liverpool, Merseyside.
At Sausser Summers, PC, our experienced trademark attorneys can help you understand the trademark process step by step. We can even help with U.S. trademark filing, U.S. trademark responses, and U.S. trademark renewals at a price you can actually afford. That way, you can make an informed decision regarding your business without having to break the bank.
Hiring an attorney can be a daunting task, but at Sausser Summers, PC, our goal is to make the process as simple and seamless as possible for you. That's why we offer a straightforward checkout service. First, you choose your flat fee trademark service and fill out a short questionnaire. Then, we will contact you within 24 hours to discuss the details of our service. From there, one of our experienced trademark attorneys will get to work on your behalf.
Using a trademark attorney for filing in Liverpool, Merseyside, can significantly increase your chances of a successful registration. The U.S. government recommends hiring a trademark attorney to help with your application, and our team of trademark lawyers is dedicated to meeting your needs. In fact, we help ensure your application is filed correctly the first time so you can get on with your life and avoid legal risks.
At Sausser Summers, PC, we work closely with our clients to understand their needs and provide them with sound professional advice. We never offer incomplete services, such as simply filing for registration, because that would leave you open to legal risks. You can rely on us to handle your intellectual property matters, and our flat fee services can help protect your business in a simple, straightforward, and affordable way. It's really that simple.
In terms of filing a U.S. trademark, we provide an easy three-step process to protect your intellectual property:
1. You provide your trademark info to our team via an online form.
2. Our team performs a comprehensive trademark search. This search ensures that no other marks will prevent you from registering your trademark in the U.S. Once performed, we'll send you a legal opinion letter that details our findings.
3. Sausser Summers, PC, files your U.S. trademark application. We are then listed as your Attorney of Record on file. From there, we'll provide ongoing updates regarding the status of your trademark as it works through the registration process.
The bottom line? At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.
At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.
It's not necessary to be a lawyer in order to apply for a trademark. Anyone can submit a trademark application to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). However, registering a trademark involves more than just filling out a form. It's essential to conduct thorough research, accurately identify and clearly explain your trademark to ensure it receives adequate protection. And even after securing a trademark, you've got to monitor it consistently to make sure it's free from infringement.
The big takeaway here is that it's always a good idea to work with a trademark attorney to protect the intellectual property that you've worked so hard to establish. According to the Wall Street Journal, applicants are approximately 50% more likely to secure their trademark than people who file applications on their own. If your trademark application is rejected by the USPTO, you will need to revise and refile it, incurring additional filing fees. To avoid delays and extra costs, it is best to have a trademark lawyer help you get it right the first time.
Great trademark attorneys (like those you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC) will help with every step of filing and enforcing your trademark. Some additional benefits include the following:
Check to see if your proposed trademark is registered by another entity.
Conduct research to see if another business is using the trademark for which you're applying.
Provide advice and guidance on the strength of your trademark.
Draft and submit your trademark applications and application revisions.
Advice and guidance regarding trademark maintenance and protection.
Monitor the market for unauthorized use of your trademark.
Trademark enforcement to protect you against infringement.
Curious whether our trademark attorney services are right for you and your business? Contact Sausser Summer, PC, today. Let's talk about what you need, and how we can help.
Online services, can provide you with basic assistance in filing your trademark. However, they will never be a legitimate substitute for an experienced trademark attorney helping clients in Liverpool, Merseyside.
Although online filing services offer a step-by-step process, they take a one-size-fits-all approach to preparing legal documents. Even their advanced service only provides basic attorney assistance in completing your paperwork and helping with minor roadblocks. Online filing services' disclaimer highlights the many limitations of its services, including the fact that communications are not protected by attorney-client privilege. In addition, online filing services cannot provide advice, explanations, opinions, recommendations, or any kind of legal guidance on possible legal rights, remedies, defenses, options, selection of forms or strategies.
In other words, online filing services can offer you the necessary forms and point you in the right direction, but they cannot customize their services to your specific needs or help you with serious complications that may arise.
For the most comprehensive trademark service and protection, it's always wise to work with highly rated trademark lawyers, like you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC.
Trademarks in the U.S. can last indefinitely, but did you know that clients in Liverpool, Merseyside can file a trademark online, only to lose protection in some circumstances? Trademarks differ from patents and copyrights in that they do not have an expiration date. However, to prevent the cancellation of a trademark, you must maintain it. To ensure that your trademark remains protected, you must actively use it in commerce and renew it with the USPTO every ten years.
The Lanham Act tells us that "use in commerce" is the legitimate use of a trademark in the ordinary course of trade. In other words, you cannot register a trademark solely to reserve the rights to it in the future. In most cases, a trademark must be used continuously in connection with the goods or services it is registered for.
Trademarks are registered with the USPTO and generally need to be renewed every ten years. However, there is one crucial exception that you should be aware of. Within the first ten years of owning a trademark, you must file for renewal between the fifth and sixth year from the date of your initial registration.
During this renewal period, you are required to submit a Section 8 declaration, a specimen that shows how the mark is being used, and pay the required fee. You can also apply for Section 15 Incontestability status, which can strengthen your trademark rights. This application, although not mandatory, can make it harder for others to challenge your ownership of the mark.
After the first renewal, which falls between the fifth and sixth year of ownership, the next renewal filing is due between the ninth and tenth year, and then every tenth year thereafter. In the ninth year you will need to file a Section 8 declaration, attesting to your use of the mark or excusable nonuse. You've also got to file a Section 9 renewal application before the end of the tenth year to keep your registration active.
It is worth noting that the USPTO provides a six-month grace period if you fail to renew your mark within the required time frame, but it is best not to rely on it. If you don't file within the grace period time limits, the USPTO will cancel and expire your mark.
By hiring trademark attorneys helping clients in Liverpool, Merseyside, you can avoid the pitfalls and mistakes that can arise and cause you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it.
In the event that you stop using your trademark and have no plans to resume using it in commerce, it may be considered abandoned by the USPTO. This could result in the loss of your protective rights to the mark. Typically, a trademark is assumed to be abandoned if it has not been used for three years. However, you may be able to refute this presumption by providing evidence that you intend to use the mark again in the future.
In addition to trademark abandonment, you should also be wary of improper licensing. It's important to remember that once you allow someone else to use your trademark, you must keep an eye on how they use it. You should monitor the products or services that feature your trademark to ensure that they meet consumers' expectations in terms of quality. Failure to do so can lead to a "naked" trademark license and the loss of your protective trademark rights.
If you're wondering how you can avoid refiling your trademark, the answer is simple: file it correctly the first time around. Filing a trademark isn't inherently difficult, but when doing so, it's very important that certain aspects are filled out accurately in your application. If any information is missing or incorrect, the trademark application may be considered "void ab initio" or void from the beginning, requiring you to file again.
To avoid this, make sure that the information you provide in the application is accurate and complete, including the ownership of the trademark. For instance, if a corporation has multiple shareholders, it should not file under the President's personal name. The rightful owner should be the one/entity that ultimately controls the trademark and the associated goods/services.
It is also important to ensure that the goods and/or services description is precise. For example, if you sell electronic products, you should not file for research and development services despite having a research and development department. The goods/services description should reflect the goods/services you offer to customers, not the departments within your business.
Additionally, providing accurate dates of first use when filing for a trademark is crucial. The USPTO requires two dates to be specified - the date of first use anywhere and the date of first use in interstate commerce. Contact our trademark law office today to learn more about having accurate dates on your filing paperwork.
At Sausser Summers, PC, we often get questions about how to distinguish run-of-the-mill consultants and others from great trademark attorneys. After all - when you're looking for an attorney to file or prosecute your business trademark, you should know their qualifications. Here are three ways you can separate the proverbial wheat from the chaff when it comes to trademark attorneys.
It's crucial to seek legal advice from a licensed trademark lawyer rather than relying on advice from non-professionals like trademark consultants. The USPTO even recommends hiring an attorney to help with the trademark process. Although trademark consultants may provide advice on trademark availability or name marketability, they cannot file the trademark for you or offer legal advice. According to the Rules of Practicing in trademark cases, "Individuals who are not attorneys are not recognized to practice before the Office in trademark matters." This rule applies to individuals who assist trademark applicants.
When searching for a trademark attorney, it's important to find someone with a strong background in trademark law. Look for an attorney who specializes in this area and has significant experience handling trademark-related cases. Avoid lawyers who don't have expertise in this field, as they may not be able to provide the guidance and support you need.
Ensure your attorney provides updates throughout the trademark registration process to avoid missing deadlines, including responding to any Office actions within six months. Failure to do so can result in trademark abandonment. The USPTO will only correspond with the listed attorney of record, so make sure your attorney keeps you informed.
In summary:
Building your brand and gaining recognition for it is a significant achievement, and it's important to protect it. However, there are certain pitfalls and mistakes that can arise, causing you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it. By working with knowledgeable trademark attorneys, you can avoid these issues and file your trademark successfully.
With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Sausser Summers, PC, offers comprehensive guidance, strategic advice, and reliable representation for a variety of trademark matters. Our attorneys have years of real-world experience and, having registered countless trademarks with the USPTO, provide our clients with individualized representation when they need it most.
If you're looking for skilled, adept, and experienced counsel, look no further than our trademark law firm. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and learn how we can help you safeguard your brand.
The Merseyside Independent Business Awards (MIB Awards) is officially open for entries for 2025, marking another milestone in the celebration of entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and community impact across the Liverpool City Region. The black-tie ceremony will take place on Thursday 16 October 2025 at Titanic Hotel Liverpool, bringing together 500 guests from across the city region’s business community.Founded in 2013 by Morecrofts Solicitors to mark the firm’s 200th anniversary as a proud independent business,...
The black-tie ceremony will take place on Thursday 16 October 2025 at Titanic Hotel Liverpool, bringing together 500 guests from across the city region’s business community.
Founded in 2013 by Morecrofts Solicitors to mark the firm’s 200th anniversary as a proud independent business, the MIB Awards were created to showcase and champion the diverse and thriving landscape of independent businesses across the region.
This year introduces new category, CIC Business of the Year, recognising Community Interest Companies that are making a difference through purpose-led business. The category aims to celebrate organisations that blend entrepreneurship with social impact, reflecting the growing role of ethical business in regional growth.
“The MIB Awards are about shining a light on the determination, resilience and creativity of independent businesses that power our local economy. Whether you’re a start-up, a long-established company or a community-focused CIC, we want to hear your story. I would encourage every independent business in our region to consider entering – this is your platform to be celebrated.”
Returning for another year as headline sponsor is the Liverpool BID Company, reinforcing their ongoing commitment to supporting the region’s business community.
“Independent businesses are the beating heart of our city region. The MIB Awards not only celebrate their success but also highlight the incredible diversity and innovation they bring to our economy. We are proud to support this event once again and look forward to recognising those who make Merseyside such a dynamic place to live, work and invest.”
Entries close on 11th July 2025. Businesses can self-nominate or be nominated by others. When nominated, the MIB Awards team will reach out directly with entry details.
(Image: Cindy Ord/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions)A Merseyside actor says his dreams have come true after winning a prestigious award. Jak Malone, 30, from Prenton, received a Tony Award in New York earlier this week for his performance as Hester Leggatt in award-winning musical Operation Mincemeat.Based on a t...
(Image: Cindy Ord/Getty Images for Tony Awards Productions)
A Merseyside actor says his dreams have come true after winning a prestigious award. Jak Malone, 30, from Prenton, received a Tony Award in New York earlier this week for his performance as Hester Leggatt in award-winning musical Operation Mincemeat.
Based on a true story from World War II, the operation is largely attributed to Ewen Montagu and Charles Cholmondeley. However, until recently, little was known about Hester, a female MI5 secretary.
The award-winning musical began its run on Broadway earlier this spring. Speaking to Playbill moments after receiving the Tony Award, Jak said it was a victory for his younger self.
The Wirral-born actor said: "I am hovering above my body experiencing this, watching this happening. There's been so many points during this insane amazing awards season where I've said to people, my 15-year-old self is in the room.
“I watched Stephen Schwartz sing 'For Good' to Idina Menzel, and I was crying, and I said: 'you'll have to forgive me, my 15 year old self is in the room,' and I feel like that today.
“That's the age when I really just decided that Broadway was the top, and that's when I was like, 'I endeavor to go there and find my joy,' and I feel like I have.
“So my 15-year-old self is in the room. And if you told him I was going to win this, he would've believed you, because he was confident."
Jak has recently supported the release of a brand new book called Finding Hester. The book chronicles how a group of super fans, 'Mincefluencers', tracked down the previously unknown details on the real Hester Leggatt.
Jak has written the foreword to Finding Hester. Speaking about the book, he said: "You’re in for a treat. It’s an incredible story that I still have trouble believing in myself.
“A group of plucky individuals who pull off the unthinkable – a moment in history that truly deserves to shine." You can find out more about the book here.
Jak also won an Olivier Award last year for his performance as Hester. The performer previously told the ECHO how he was “proud” of the community of fans he has built up over the years since leaving Merseyside and settling in the country’s capital.
The actor said: “It’s my dream to be on the West End and it's my ambition but it is something you think won’t happen to you. Everybody has to have a grounded approach but it has finally happened to me and it's so much bigger and nicer than I ever thought it would be.
"The community of fans that have built up around the show are so lovely and so present. They are a real part of the day-to-day aspect of what it means for me to do the show.”
Before Jak started making a name for himself in London, he was adding to his CV whilst living back here in the city centre. He thanks his nan, Joan, for introducing him to the entertainment industry as she used to work at the Liverpool Empire Theatre as a dresser.
He added: “Back then, they were very generous with the complimentary tickets - they gave tickets out for everything. I saw everything that was on and it truly was inspiring.
“I went with my cousin and it didn’t matter what was on, we were there watching it for free. It showed me exactly what I wanted to do and pinpointed it for me. It helped me see a way forward in life.
“My family started to see performing was benefitting all aspects of my life. My behaviour improved, I was doing better at school and I became a lot more well-rounded and happier as a child.”
Having found his passion in life, Jak went on to join a theatre group in the area before studying at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA).
Just before he was about to graduate from Paul McCartney’s institute, he received a call which transformed his fortunes. The actor who was due to play Dim in a performance of Clockwork Orange at the Liverpool Everyman pulled out and Jak was asked to fill in. His performance got him noticed and helped him secure a role in Operation Mincemeat.
One part of Liverpool that is “overwhelmed” by traffic congestion must receive a “meaningful portion” of a huge transport settlement, it has been argued. Ahead of Wednesday’s landmark spending review, Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed a £1.6 billion transport boost for the Liverpool City Region.This will include £100m for three new bus rapid transit routes. The ...
One part of Liverpool that is “overwhelmed” by traffic congestion must receive a “meaningful portion” of a huge transport settlement, it has been argued. Ahead of Wednesday’s landmark spending review, Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed a £1.6 billion transport boost for the Liverpool City Region.
This will include £100m for three new bus rapid transit routes. The Liverpool City Region cash will also be spent on a brand-new fleet of buses that will form part of the region's soon-to-be franchised bus network.
Ahead of this huge financial injection, calls have been made for the funding to be invested across the city region. Cllr Joe Dunne, who represents the Tuebrook Breckside Park ward, said the new funding “offers an unprecedented opportunity to address long-standing issues in neighbourhoods like ours.”
As part of the £100m rapid transport investment, Anfield stadium would be included on a dedicated route which would also serve Everton’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium and Liverpool Airport.
Cllr Dunne said the community around Tuebrook faces issues that “intensify significantly” during matchdays, with West Derby Road which goes through the heart of the area, a well-used route to the stadium.
Writing to Andrew Lewis, Liverpool Council chief executive and Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram, Cllr Dunne said the cash must be spent in areas like his own, not just the city centre. He said: “Following the Chancellor's announcement of the historic £1.6 billion transport settlement for the Liverpool City Region, I am writing to urge that a meaningful portion of this funding be directed towards improving transport and infrastructure provision in Tuebrook - a community that continues to bear the brunt of regional events without receiving proportional investment.
“Tuebrook is frequently overwhelmed by traffic congestion, disrupted bus services, unsafe walking routes, and pressure on local amenities - issues that intensify significantly during Liverpool Football Club matchdays and concerts.
"While we all welcome the club's growth and success, it must be recognised that the local area is paying a high price for this expansion.”
Cllr Dunne added how he wanted officials to ensure that Tuebrook is “not overlooked, in transport and infrastructure planning” and called upon leaders to prioritise the area for investment, particularly around bus capacity and cycling infrastructure.
"He also called for traffic mitigation measures to ease the impact of major events at Anfield on roads and residents.
The Liberal Party member added: “Tuebrook deserves its fair share - not just in transport funding, but in long-term planning that respects and supports the communities closest to the club and the stadium.”
These delightful puppies and dogs are patiently waiting at Dogs Trust Merseyside for their forever homes. Could you be the family they're longing for?Dozens of delightful puppies and ...
These delightful puppies and dogs are patiently waiting at Dogs Trust Merseyside for their forever homes. Could you be the family they're longing for?
Dozens of delightful puppies and dogs are looking for permanent homes in and around Liverpool - and they would love the chance to meet you.
Dogs Trust Merseyside serves Liverpool, Knowsley, Sefton, Wirral and St Helens and has more than 50 wonderful canines up for adoption, including playful young pups and delightful golden oldies.
- These 15 adorable cats and dogs at Merseyside RSPCA centres need forever homes in Liverpool
- Go beyond just reading the story - sign up for the LiverpoolWorld newsletter
Below are 19 of the rescue centre’s residents who are desperate to find a family. Information about the adoption process is available via the Dogs Trust Merseyside website.
These delightful puppies and dogs are patiently waiting at Dogs Trust Merseyside for their forever homes. Could you be the family they're longing for?
These delightful puppies and dogs are patiently waiting at Dogs Trust Merseyside for their forever homes. Could you be the family they're longing for?
These delightful puppies and dogs are patiently waiting at Dogs Trust Merseyside for their forever homes. Could you be the family they're longing for?
Explore Liverpool's culinary excellence as many eateries are named among the UK's top restaurants by the Michelin Guide.Liverpool might not have any coveted Michelin stars but it is home to many incredible restaurants that feature in the prestigious Michelin Guide.Whether you’re looki...
Explore Liverpool's culinary excellence as many eateries are named among the UK's top restaurants by the Michelin Guide.
Liverpool might not have any coveted Michelin stars but it is home to many incredible restaurants that feature in the prestigious Michelin Guide.
Whether you’re looking to try out a new spot or you’re celebrating a special occasion, we have scoured the guide to find the top restaurants in and around Liverpool. We have also featured three incredible restaurants located just outside of Merseyside, near Ormskirk.
- Two restaurants near Liverpool named UK’s best
Take a look at the gallery below to see the 11 wonderful restaurants in around Liverpool which are recommended by the ‘foodie bible’.
Explore Liverpool's culinary excellence as many eateries are named among the UK's top restaurants by the Michelin Guide.
Liverpool might not have any coveted Michelin stars but it is home to many incredible restaurants that feature in the prestigious Michelin Guide.
Whether you’re looking to try out a new spot or you’re celebrating a special occasion, we have scoured the guide to find the top restaurants in and around Liverpool. We have also featured three incredible restaurants located just outside of Merseyside, near Ormskirk.
Explore Liverpool's culinary excellence as many eateries are named among the UK's top restaurants by the Michelin Guide.
Liverpool might not have any coveted Michelin stars but it is home to many incredible restaurants that feature in the prestigious Michelin Guide.
Whether you’re looking to try out a new spot or you’re celebrating a special occasion, we have scoured the guide to find the top restaurants in and around Liverpool. We have also featured three incredible restaurants located just outside of Merseyside, near Ormskirk.