Trademarks and Service Marks Defined

What do trademarks and service marks protect?

A trademark identifies the source of goods; a service mark identifies the source of services. Rights can arise through use without federal registration. TM and SM can signal a claim before registration; the registered symbol applies only after registration and only to covered goods or services.

Read the full What is a Trademark – Trademarks and Service Marks Defined guide for details and next steps.