Using a competitor’s brand name in your ads might be a bold strategic move. You can put your business directly in front of an audience that’s already interested in what you offer. But before you start weaving competitor names into your campaigns, you need to know where smart marketing ends and legal risk begins. So,…
When someone uses your intellectual property without permission, it can feel personal. You put time, money, and creative energy into building something, and suddenly someone else is benefiting from it. If you are thinking about taking legal action, you might be asking what damages you can recover in an IP case. Under the law, damages…
A trademark application rejection can feel like a major setback, especially if you have already started building your brand around that name or logo. So, what happens if your trademark application is rejected? This is not the end of the line. Refusals from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) are common. Many times, they…
Intellectual property is a part of your business’s identity. Your name, logo, designs, and ideas set you apart. However, companies make plenty of mistakes when it comes to these assets. Here is a look at the common mistakes businesses make with IP and how to avoid them. This can help keep your ideas, your brand,…
When people think of intellectual property, names, logos, or catchy slogans come to mind. But some of the most recognizable parts of a brand do not include words. They are visual. This can be the shape of a product, the way something is packaged, or the look and feel of a store. That is known…
When most people open their utility bills, they might glance at the total, compare it to last month, and move on with their day. However, there are times when a bill shows up that makes you do a double-take. You might see an amount is higher than usual or charges that don’t make sense. Utility…
Everyone has posted something online. It could be a funny video, a photo you’re proud of, or a clever post. You might have even thought, “What if this actually takes off?” Sometimes, that post gets shared and then reshared. Before you know it, your content seems to be everywhere. When digital content goes viral, it…
If you have a small blog, an online store, or a full-scale business, you may have asked yourself: Does my website need a privacy policy or terms of use? This is not just about looking professional. These legal terms protect your business and your users and keep you compliant with state and federal laws. Here…
When a business is merging with another or being acquired, there is a lot to think about. Employees, contracts, real estate, finances, and operational details all demand attention. However, one area that gets overlooked is intellectual property (IP). Patents, trademarks, copyrights, trade secrets, and proprietary software can be some of the most valuable assets a…
Phillips & Bathke, P.C. has closed its law practice and is no longer serving clients. We are sincerely grateful for the clients, colleagues, and communities we have been privileged to serve.
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