Category
Church Name, Trademark & Media
Trademark vs. Business Name Registration: Not the Same Thing
Trademark vs DBA church filings do different jobs. A state name registration gives you no right to stop anyone else using the name. Here is why.
Choosing a Church Name That Can Be Protected
Most church names are not protectable. Here is the distinctiveness test for a protectable church name, and the four checks to run before signage.
Protecting a Ministry Logo and Brand Assets
A church logo trademark is only half the story. Copyright in the artwork is the other half, and it's the half most churches never got in writing.
What It Costs to Register a Trademark
The USPTO filing fee is charged per class, and the class count drives the total. Here is the cost picture, including the maintenance filings churches forget.
Common-Law Trademark Rights for Churches
Common law trademark church rights come from use, not filing, and only where you operate. What they cover, what they miss, and the proof to keep.
What a Trademark Knockout Search Actually Tells You
A trademark knockout search is a fast screen for obvious conflicts, better at saying no than yes. What it covers, what it misses, and how to read it.
Another Church Is Using Our Name. What Now?
Another church using our name? Overlap is common and often lawful. Find out who used it first, and where, before anybody sends a letter to anyone.