A blackout period refers to the timeframe between when a trademark application is approved for publication by the examining attorney and the issuance of the notice of allowance. During this period, applicants must refrain from submitting any additional documents, such as an Allegation of Use, as the application is in a state where no submissions can be processed.
The term "blackout period" is primarily used in trademark law. It is relevant in the context of trademark applications, where applicants must follow specific procedures to secure their trademarks. Understanding this period is crucial for applicants to avoid unnecessary delays in the trademark registration process.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: An applicant submits a trademark application. The examining attorney approves it for publication on January 10. The applicant must wait until the notice of allowance is issued before making any further submissions, leading to a blackout period until that notice is received.
(hypothetical example)
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Blackout Period | The time between trademark approval for publication and the notice of allowance. |
| Notice of Allowance | A formal notification that a trademark application has been approved and is ready for registration. |
| Allegation of Use | A statement filed by a trademark applicant confirming that the trademark is in use in commerce. |
If you find yourself in a blackout period, ensure you do not attempt to file any documents until you receive the notice of allowance. If you're unsure about your next steps, consider using US Legal Forms' templates to prepare your documents in advance. If your situation is complex, seeking advice from a legal professional may be beneficial.
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| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Typical Duration | Varies based on the trademark application process. |
| Jurisdiction | Federal trademark law applies. |
| Possible Penalties | Delays in trademark registration if submissions are made during this period. |
Your submission will not be processed, which may delay your trademark application.