It says you live in Virginia, so you want to deal with the USPTO.
First off, you are looking to trademark not copyright. Second, even if you manage to get a trademark, it won't stop others from using it. For example, if you were to trademark Widget Productions, you would need to specify classes. Let's say you make videos and register in the appropriate classes for your business.
Next, someone is using Widget Productions, but they are a party planning service. You would have to make a very good case to have a shot at stopping them. If you are on the level of Microsoft, Fed-ex and others (popularity wise), you stand a shot. Otherwise, not really.
Applying for a trademark is expensive. The government charges hundreds of dollars per class. An attorney or service will tack on further frees.
To learn more, visit: http://www.uspto.gov/
It takes time for a trademark to go through and you might get denied. Also, if someone is already using the name, you may have issues. Finally, it's up to you to defend your own trademark. If someone violates it, you will need to come out of pocket for all legal expenses, which can run thousands of dollars for starters. |
, and someone told me it was too broad a word and I wouldn't be able to trademark it.
