Gunn, Lee & Cave P.C. practices intellectual property law, trademark law, copyright law, patent law, and patent litigation services in the San Antonio, TX area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gunn, Lee & Cave P.C.
What is a trademark?
A trademark is a distinctive identifier that can be a word, symbol, device, or name. It serves to indicate the source of goods, differentiating them from products of other origins. Trademarks are ubiquitous in our daily lives, appearing on everything from clothing brands and car manufacturers to coffee brands and countless other products.
What is a service mark?
A service mark functions similarly to a trademark, but instead of identifying the origin of goods, it designates the source of services. Examples of service marks include names or logos of cruise lines, hotels, plumbing companies, oil change shops, and lawn care services, among others.
What are the requirements for me to get a trademark or service mark registered?
To register a trademark or service mark, three key requirements must be met. First, there must be actual use in commerce, meaning the mark is already being used to indicate the origin of existing goods or services. Second, the mark cannot be deceptively similar to an existing mark for similar goods or services. Third, the mark must not be generic or merely descriptive of the goods or services offered. Our attorneys at Gunn, Lee & Cave can evaluate the viability of registering your proposed mark.
I have a great idea for a trademark and I am planning to use it in the future, what should I do?
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) allows for the reservation of a proposed trademark or service mark, even if it's not currently in use. This reservation can be renewed every six months for up to three years. Before the three-year period expires, you must register the mark, which requires actual use in commerce. This system allows you to reserve a mark that's still in the idea stage, giving you time to begin using it commercially.
What is a copyright?
A copyright is a form of protection for original works of authorship that have been fixed in a tangible medium of expression. This can include a wide range of creative works such as original art, manuscripts, screenplays, web content, books, compilations of works, designs, drawings, computer programs, and many other forms of original creative expression.
What are the benefits of federal registration for my original work of authorship?
Federal copyright registration offers significant benefits for protecting your original work. It allows you to seek statutory damages in case of infringement, which can range from $750 to $30,000 per work, or up to $150,000 for willful infringement. Without registration, you're limited to proving actual damages, which can be challenging and often results in minimal compensation. Additionally, registration can entitle you to recover court costs and attorney fees if you need to prosecute your copyright in court. Given these advantages, registering your copyright is a prudent step for authors to safeguard their creative works.
What services does Gunn, Lee & Cave P.C. provide?
Gunn, Lee & Cave P.C. offers legal services specializing in intellectual property law, including trademark law, copyright law, patent law, and patent litigation in San Antonio, TX.
What are your business hours?
The firm is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and certain holidays.
Do I need an appointment to visit Gunn, Lee & Cave P.C.?
Yes, appointments are required to visit the firm.
What payment methods are accepted at the firm?
The firm accepts American Express, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa as payment options.
How can I contact Gunn, Lee & Cave P.C.?
You can call the main phone at +1 210-245-8550, the alternate phone at +1 210-886-9500, send a fax to +1 210-886-9883, or email info@gunn-lee.com.
What is a trademark and why is it important?
A trademark is a distinctive identifier such as a word, symbol, or name that indicates the source of goods, differentiating them from other products. It is important for protecting brand identity.
Can I reserve a trademark before I start using it?
Yes, you can reserve a proposed trademark or service mark with the USPTO for up to three years, renewing every six months, even if it is not yet in use, but actual use is required before registration.
What are some nearby places around Gunn, Lee & Cave P.C. that might be of interest?
Nearby places include real estate agents like Aurora C. Manangan Realtor and Weichert Realtors - Select, educational services like Blocker Education, and legal firms such as De Mott, McChesney, Curtright and Armendáriz, LLP. These locations can be useful for referrals or additional local services.
Are there legal service providers near Gunn, Lee & Cave P.C. for related legal matters?
Yes, nearby legal service providers include firms like Mack Injury Attorneys, Valdez and Trevino Attorneys at Law, and the Law Firm of Aaron A. Herbert - San Antonio, which specialize in personal injury and other legal services.
Are there convenient dining options close to Gunn, Lee & Cave P.C.?
Yes, for a quick meal, Subway sandwich shop is located nearby, making it convenient to grab lunch before or after your appointment.