When I embarked on starting my most recent business, SnapDivorce® LLC, which provides divorce mediation services,[www.snapdivorce.com] one of the first things I did was turn to IP Works to research the availability of the name “SnapDivorce” and secure exclusive rights to it nationwide. I did this before making any other significant investment in the name, including incorporating it or developing a logo. The only Read More
Question of the Day: What is the difference between an LLC and a “DBA”?
Explanation: LLC stands for LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. If an LLC gets sued and loses, the person suing (the plaintiff) can only collect from the assets of the LLC, they cannot collect from the owner’s personal assets. Here’s an example: Jane Fisherman opens a bait shop. She signs a 5 year lease for $2,500/month, she takes out a $50,000 bank loan to buy product and set up her store, she signs up for internet and Read More
4 Steps to Protect Your Trademarks
Clients often ask us: What is involved in registering a trademark? We are happy to define and simplify the process for you – there are four basic steps: 1. Trademark Clearance. What is a trademark clearance? This is a critical first step in the registration process where a trained trademark professional researches and analyzes your proposed trademark to determine how available the mark is for use and registration. 4 Read More
IP Procurement Is Not An Expense
Thinking about intellectual property procurement including patents, trademarks and copyrights as an expense leads to bad decisions with irreversible negative consequences. Good CFOs and CEOs often look for ways to trim expenses without harming the company. When buying janitorial services, materials or office supplies, for example, it may make sense to go with a cheaper vendor, particularly if what you’re buying is Read More
