For many inventors, the creation of the invention is quickly followed by a daunting realization: inventing a product is entirely different from building a business. The decision to license an invention by transferring the rights to a third party in exchange for royalty payments is often the most pragmatic path to commercial success. This strategy…
Chicago: The Modern Hub of Inventive Minds Chicago has transformed itself into a premier destination for innovation by fostering a collaborative ecosystem where ideas are not just born, but legally fortified. As of 2026, the city stands as a “multi-industry startup engine,” powered by a unique culture of relationship-building and expert legal guidance from leaders…
How do I challenge a trademark registration or application? Several options exist to challenge another party’s trademark registration or application, depending on the particular circumstances and grounds for challenging: You may challenge a trademark registration issued by the USPTO by filing a petition to cancel the registration with the Trademark Trial & Appeal Board (TTAB)….
Innovation Clinics A Pathway to Empower Inventors In an era where innovation drives economic growth and social change, many individuals with groundbreaking ideas face significant hurdles in bringing their inventions to market. This is especially true in underserved communities, where access to resources and expert guidance can be limited. One promising solution to this challenge…
Who can pay? Maintenance fees and any necessary surcharges may be paid by the patentee or by any person or organization on behalf of a patentee. What to include with payment? You must include both the patent number and corresponding application number with your maintenance fee payment. For a reissue patent number, include the reissue…
How do I select a strong mark? It is vitally important that you select or create a trademark that is both federally registrable and legally protectable. Avoid trademarks that are likely to be confused with similar trademark. Essentially, a “likelihood of confusion” exists when 1) the marks of the parties are similar and 2) the…
Most business owners will eventually have to decide on the best trademark for their business. This process requires an excessive amount of planning. The business name can be used as the company’s domain name. The domain name will further identify your company on the web and should be the best name to represent your company….
In an era where innovation drives economic growth and social change, many individuals with groundbreaking ideas face significant hurdles in bringing their inventions to market. This is especially true in underserved communities, where access to resources and expert guidance can be limited. One promising solution to this challenge is the establishment of Innovation Clinics—community-oriented spaces…
If you are the owner of a copyrighted work, you have the exclusive rights to reproduce, distribute, display, perform, and modify your work. As the copyright owner, you have the authority to control how your work is used and to grant permissions or licenses to others. If you want to explore creative ways to market…
How do I challenge a trademark registration or application? Several options exist to challenge another party’s trademark registration or application, depending on the particular circumstances and grounds for challenging: You may challenge a trademark registration issued by the USPTO by filing a petition to cancel the registration with the Trademark Trial & Appeal Board (TTAB)….
