Your logo is a symbol for your brand. It’s an image you hope your target audience will remember for years. As you design your logo and prepare to go public with it, you need to take the proper steps to protect it from theft. Learn how to keep your logo safe so you won’t have to seek a lawyer to pursue legal action.

4 Tips for Protecting Your Logo from Theft

1. Keep All Evidence That It’s Yours

Retain all original artwork, ideas, and any other documents associated with your logo. Use electronic as well as paper files to provide proof of "sufficient authorship.” If you worked with a graphic designer or artist to create the logo, write out contracts that waive the individual’s right to ownership. Logos made with clip art or stock photos will not be considered original.

2. Make Sure It’s Original

Search for your logo in the Trademark Electronic Search System database if you’re concerned about its originality. Use the Design Search Code Manual to find design codes that can streamline your search. If you find that your logo is similar to others in the database, make changes to ensure your logo’s originality.

3. Register Your Logo

Work with a business lawyer to register your logo with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, assuming you are using it for commercial purposes. Your lawyer will guide you through the process to ensure success. Only unique logo art is eligible for protection under the U.S. Copyright Office. Words, slogans, phrases, titles, and names cannot be trademarked.

4. Always Use “™”

Make sure the “™” appears with each logo use so it is clear that the design is protected. Logos are trademarked for 10 years after their registration dates. If you feel your logo still needs protection after 10 years, contact the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. In logo infringement cases, anoffender knowingly uses a logo for non-educational purposes. Such individuals are subject to criminal prosecution.

Protect your logo from infringement with help from Woodlawn Law Offices, a general practice law firm based in O'Fallon, MO. With 25 years of experience, these honest and reliable lawyers provide clients throughout St. Charles County with a full suite of services. Contact them today at (636) 240-6667 to schedule a consultation or visit the firm’s website for more information about their business law services.