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What is the difference between a trademark and a registered trademark?

Founder & Trademark Attorney

A trademark is any sign (i.e., a symbol, word, or phrase) that distinguishes your goods or services from others and serves as your brand identifier in the marketplace. Examples of trademarks include brand names, logos, slogans, taglines, and mascots.

A registered trademark is a trademark that's officially recorded with the appropriate government authority. A registered mark gives the owner stronger legal protection and exclusive rights to use the mark for specific goods or services, rather than being limited to the geographical area where the mark is actively used.

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