Trademark Basics

Are you a small business owner or entrepreneur interested in learning about trademarks and how to apply for a federal registration? Join USPTO trademark expert for a discussion about what all entrepreneurs, small businesses, and startups should know about trademarks. The discussion will cover the following:

• How trademarks, copyrights, patents, domain names, and business name registrations all differ
• The benefits of federal trademark registration
• Why it is important for any new business to select a trademark that will be both federally registrable and legally protectable
• Critical factors to consider when choosing a mark
• The importance of doing a complete search and whether an attorney should be used
• The USPTO’s role in the federal registration process
• How to get free and reduced-price legal help when applying for registration

Jason Lott is the Attorney Advisor for Trademark Educational Outreach at the United States Patent and Trademark Office,  where he specializes in helping small business owners understand trademarks and the federal trademark registration process through live presentations, creative videos, and other multimedia platforms. He has been with the USPTO since 2000, previously serving as an Examining Attorney, and is a recipient of the Bronze Medal Award, the Exceptional Career Award, multiple Customer Service Awards, and the AIPLA Outstanding trademark Examining Attorney Award.

Mr. Lott earned his J.D. in 2000 from the Dickinson School of Law of the Pennsylvania  State University and his B.A., magna cum laude, in 1997 from Kenyon College. He is admitted to the bars of Ohio and the District of Columbia.

Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.