Experienced Intellectual Property Attorney
- Registered USPTO Intellectual Property Attorney.
- Protect your patent & trademark.
- Franchise your business.
Why Choose Us?
Serva Law Group distinguishes itself from other law firms through our IP attorney, who successfully passed the "patent bar" and has been officially registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) since 2003. With over two decades of experience, we help entrepreneurs not only during the initial startup phases of their ventures but also in protecting and expanding their businesses. Beyond assisting with LLC and corporation formations, we help in trademark registration and franchising.
Highly skilled with over 20 years of experience, Serva Law Group’s distinguished intellectual property attorney is officially registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
What Is “The Patent Bar”?
The patent bar is an exam that someone must take to become a “patent attorney” or patent agent. It is also known as the patent bar exam or patent exam. By passing this exam, these professionals can represent inventors in front of the United States Trademark and Patent Office (USPTO). To even be eligible to take the patent bar exam, the test-taker must first show scientific or technical background. Then, to pass the patent bar exam is exceptionally difficult. Historically, passing rates are between 25 percent and 50 percent.
Why Is the Patent Bar Important?
The patent bar is the only way for individuals to represent inventors before the USPTO. Without passing it, there's no legal way to become a patent attorney or patent agent. The exam tests the laws, rules, and procedures dictated by the Manual or Patent Examination Procedure (MPEP). This analyzes a person's ability to give valuable service, advice, and assistance to inventors in preparation and prosecution of patent applications.
Do You Need a Trademark Attorney?
A trademark is a word (i.e., your business name), symbol (i.e., your logo), or both (i.e., the name of your business combined with your logo) that is used to identify your business, to identify the goods you sell, and to identify the services that you provide. A trademark may also include slogans that you use in the identification of your business.
Protection of your trademarks will require the filing of a trademark registration application with the United States Trademark and Patent Office (USPTO). Not everyone is required to have an attorney represent them before the USPTO. You could do it yourself, however, please consider the following benefits of hiring a trademark attorney:
- Providing you crucial legal advice about your trademark.
- Conducting your trademark clearance search before you file an application.
- Preparing your application accurately.
- Responding to legal correspondence from the USPTO.
- Enforcing and maintaining your trademark rights.
- Representing you at the USPTO’s Trademark Trial and Appeal Board.
- Shielding you from fraudulent solicitations.
In the long run, hiring an attorney may save you money because an attorney will know how to best advise you on your trademark’s registrability, prepare your application, and respond to the USPTO on various issues that might arise throughout the process.
There are numerous companies that state they will help you file your application. Some of these companies may offer legitimate services; others do not. Be aware that trademark filing companies are not the same as law firms. Trademark registration is more than just paperwork and filling out forms. The attorneys at Serva Law Group strategically handle applications to minimize issues and delays.
Trademarks and Franchising
Franchising and trademarks are inherently related. When you decide to franchise your business, a fundamental legal aspect is granting your franchisees the license and rights to use your trademarks. As franchisees replicate your business model, they rely on your trademarks. As the franchisor, it becomes your responsibility to dictate how franchisees should use these trademarks, and it's crucial to ensure that your trademarks are registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and protected from any unauthorized usage by competitors.
At Serva Law Group, our attorneys can help concept owners with the development, launch, and expansion of their franchise systems, allowing you to grow your brand and revenue. We also offer ongoing legal counsel, guidance, and franchise compliance services to ensure your brand remains ahead of the curve.