How to Conduct a Trademark Clearance Search Before Spending $10K on Branding: A Legal Guide
Running a quick search in the USPTO database for exact spelling matches to your idea for a new brand name or slogan will not protect your company from a costly Section 2(d) likelihood-of-confusion refusal or a common law trademark infringement lawsuit. The examining attorney could still come back with a likelihood of confusion refusal, and […]
How to Secure Trademark Priority for Your Brand
You’ve finally nailed it: the perfect name and logo for your new venture. You’re ready to print the business cards, launch the website, and start selling. But in the excitement of a new launch, many Ohio entrepreneurs skip a critical step: establishing trademark priority. Trademark priority determines whether you actually own your brand identity. Without […]
Your Essential Ohio Startup IP Protection Strategy for 2026
For any startup, non-profit, or small business in Ohio, your intellectual property (IP) is one of your most valuable—and vulnerable—assets. It is the lifeblood of your brand, your innovations, and your competitive edge. In 2026, a proactive IP protection strategy is not optional; it is essential for long-term growth and success. Why an Ohio Startup […]
The Founder’s First Legal Must-Do: Documentation
Starting a new company is exhilarating. Founders are often eager to turn their big ideas into reality, but this excitement can lead to overlooking critical legal formalities. For small businesses in the initial formation stage (or those that may have skipped these critical steps), a few simple, foundational documents can prevent major headaches—and costly lawsuits—down […]
Do you really own your AI-Generated Content?
While generative AI tools have become widely available and may seem like the fastest way to create social media posts, marketing materials, and other forms of content, there is a downside. Beyond the obvious—these tools often provide false information and just make up “facts”—AI generated content also isn’t protected under copyright law. This means that […]
Copyright Infringement
Too many small business owners assume that just because something is on the internet, it must be free to use. For example, have you ever: Copyright infringement occurs anytime you use someone else’s work without their permission. Copyright law imposes strict liability on all instances of copyright infringement. This means your intent doesn’t matter, and acknowledging […]
