Trademarks
A trademark identifies goods that are manufactured and/or sold by the owner. A service mark
identifies services that are provided by the owner. A trade name identifies a business
or vocation. The purpose of a "mark" is to distinguish goods, services or businesses
from those of another.
Formal registration of trademarks and service marks was codified in 1981 and trade name
registration in 1989. Trademarks, Service Marks and Trade Names are renewable every ten years.
"Rights to Ownership" of a particular mark are derived from the Common Law of Alabama which states
that once you adopt and use a mark, and are documented as the first to use such mark, you are entitled
to exclusive rights to that mark. Any conflict of ownership is handled outside the Secretary of State's
Office and is an issue for the courts.
Lands & Trademarks / Authentications
Voice: 334-242-5325
FAX: 334-240-3138
Physical Address
11 S. Union St. Suite 200-A
Montgomery, AL 36104
Mailing Address
PO Box 5616
Montgomery, AL 36103-5616
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