Understanding Change of Name (Trademark): A Guide to Legal Procedures
Definition & Meaning
A change of name in the context of trademarks refers to the process by which owners of trademark applications or registrations update their name without altering the ownership of the trademark itself. This change is important for maintaining accurate records of ownership and is typically recorded with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) through their Assignment Branch. Recording the name change ensures that the trademark's legal status is clear and up to date.
Legal Use & context
The term "change of name" is commonly used in trademark law. It applies when a business or individual who owns a trademark wishes to update their name due to various reasons, such as rebranding or personal circumstances. This process is relevant in civil law, particularly in intellectual property law. Users can manage this process themselves by utilizing legal templates provided by US Legal Forms, which can help streamline the necessary documentation.
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A company named "Tech Innovations LLC" decides to change its name to "Innovative Tech Solutions LLC." The owner can file a change of name with the USPTO to reflect this update without transferring ownership.
Example 2: An individual who registered a trademark under their personal name, "John Smith," may change it to their business name, "Smith Enterprises." They would need to record this change with the USPTO. (hypothetical example)