Define: Abandoned Trademark

Abandoned Trademark
Abandoned Trademark
Quick Summary of Abandoned Trademark

An abandoned trademark refers to a symbol or name previously utilised by a company to differentiate its products, but has since ceased using it with no intention of doing so in the future. When a trademark is abandoned, it forfeits its legal safeguard, allowing anyone to utilise it. To obtain legal protection, a trademark must possess uniqueness and not merely describe the product. If a trademark remains unused for a period of three years, it is deemed abandoned.

Full Definition Of Abandoned Trademark

An abandoned trademark is a mark that the owner has ceased using and has no intention of using again in the future. It can also refer to a mark that has lost its distinctive significance or has become a generic term. According to the Lanham Act, nonuse of a mark for three consecutive years is considered evidence of abandonment. For instance, if a company discontinues the use of its logo and has no intentions of using it again, the logo becomes an abandoned trademark. The owner of an abandoned mark does not possess any trademark rights to prevent others from using it.

Abandoned Trademark FAQ'S

An abandoned trademark is a trademark that is no longer in use by its owner and has been abandoned or surrendered.

Yes, you can use an abandoned trademark, but you need to make sure that it is not currently being used by anyone else.

You can check the USPTO database to see if a trademark has been abandoned or surrendered.

Yes, you can register an abandoned trademark, but you need to make sure that it is not currently being used by anyone else.

An abandoned trademark loses its legal protection and can be used by anyone.

Yes, you can revive an abandoned trademark by filing a petition with the USPTO.

It can take several months to revive an abandoned trademark, depending on the complexity of the case.

Yes, you can sell an abandoned trademark, but you need to make sure that it is not currently being used by anyone else.

Yes, you can use an abandoned trademark for a different product or service, but you need to make sure that it is not currently being used by anyone else.

The main risk of using an abandoned trademark is that someone else may claim ownership of it and sue you for trademark infringement.

Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.

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