How can I protect my business name legally?

Full question:

I am starting a new business and I want to protect the name of my business. Does this come under "copyright" procedures?

  • Category: Copyrights
  • Date:
  • State: California

Answer:

Protecting your business name involves several options, depending on the type of protection you seek and whether the name is already in use. You can incorporate your business or form a limited liability company (LLC) if the name is available. Additionally, you may file for a trademark if the name is associated with a product or service, as trademarks offer protection. Copyright typically applies to written works rather than names. For specific guidance on protecting your business name, it’s advisable to consult a local attorney.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

To legally protect your business name, consider registering it as a trademark if it is used in commerce. You can also form a corporation or an LLC, which provides some level of name protection in your state. Additionally, check with your state's business registry to ensure the name isn't already in use. This helps avoid potential legal disputes.