Blog

Jan. 17, 2023

It turns out that Thomas Jefferson not only penned the Declaration of Independence and later became the third U.S. President, but he was also instrumental in arguing for trademark protections. When he was Secretary of State in 1791, a sailcloth manufacturer petitioned him for a federal trademark law. Jefferson wrote a report arguing for such a law, but Congress ignored him and the cause.

Dec. 29, 2022

In the United States, unlike other countries, a trademark receives common law protection once someone starts using it in connection with providing goods or services. A trademark is any word, symbol, design, or combination of these elements that distinguish one's goods or services.

Nov. 16, 2022

If you or your company has one or more patents, it’s important to undergo periodic patent portfolio reviews or even as an ongoing commitment. The review will not only help ensure your current patent(s) are being properly safeguarded, but it can reveal new patents you can develop from your current ones and open up new marketing and licensing ideas.

Oct. 27, 2022

In almost every sector of the business and creative world, there are reasons why you’d want to pursue a patent to protect your intellectual property.

Sept. 26, 2022

A patent is an important intellectual property (IP) tool that allows an inventor to exclude other individuals or businesses from manufacturing, using, retailing, or importing their invention. However, there are lots of misleading information surrounding what a patent can do, what can be patented, and how to apply. A well-informed Missouri intellectual property law attorney can speak with you about some facts about patents and help clarify the misconceptions.

Aug. 24, 2022

The use of technology transfers between universities and businesses in the United States has increased exponentially over the past years.

July 9, 2022

The importance of a trademark for a business cannot be overstated. That is why business owners keep a close eye on instances of trademark infringement and dilution.

June 16, 2022

Trademark infringement cases hinge, broadly speaking, on whether a similar but later trademark causes confusion among consumers or buyers and weakens the value of the original mark. If the case is won, the infringing entity will be prevented from using its mark and can be ordered to pay monetary damages.

April 20, 2022

Inventions and designs are eligible for patent protection. Works of art in whatever form are protected by copyright, with or without official registration. Names, symbols, and images used for commerce can be trademarked.

April 17, 2022

If you’re an innovator in your field, you know how important protecting your intellectual property is. No matter what line of work you’re in, you need to safeguard what makes your business unique.