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A question that frequently comes up is "what is the difference between a trademark, patent and copyright? This post provides a quick understanding of the basics for trademarks, patents and copyright. Trademark - A trademark is a word, phrase, symbol, and/or design that identifies and distinguishes the source of the goods of one party from those of others. A service mark is a word, phrase, symbol, and/or design that identifies and distinguishes the source of a service rather than goods. The term "trademark" is often used to refer to both trademarks and service marks. Trademark law protects consumers from confusion as to the source of goods and services. Patent - A patent is a limited duration property right relating to an invention, granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office in exchange for public disclosure of the invention. Patent law protects inventors. Copyright - A copyright protects works of authorship, such as writings, music, and works of art that have been tangibly expressed. Copyright law protects authors. The United States Patent and Trademark Office has created a video that also explains the differences between trademarks, patents and copyright. Contact Mark D. Walters Comments are closed.
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