Yes, you can register a trademark for yourself, as long as you are an individual using it in connection with your products or services. Under trademark law, securing a trademark can help protect your name, logo, or brand identity when used for commercial purposes.
It is possible for an individual to trademark an image of themselves as a product’s logo. In order to do so, you will have to demonstrate to the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) that you are using that logo to identify your products and services from a competing entity’s brand. Another option would be to apply to trademark your name as the product’s brand name. If you already have a distinct name for your company’s product, you should consider incorporating your name into the product’s slogan, as that too can be protected under trademark law.
Registering a trademark for your name requires filing a trademark application with the Patent and Trademark Office. A trademark attorney or trademark law expert can explain how you can use trademarks to protect your name just like businesses do for their brand names.
However, trademark protection will not provide additional legal recourse against people or entities that use your name or likeness in non-commercial settings – this does not count as trademark infringement. Trademark law does not prevent private individuals from being mentioned, nor does it offer legal protection against defamation or slander. Trademarks only serve as an IP protection tool for brand names, logos, and slogans used in commerce.
If you wish to secure your name under federal law, you must meet the requirement that your trademark application demonstrates a legitimate connection to products and services. The trademark registration process involves an examiner reviewing your application through the trademark electronic portal of the USPTO. Successfully registering a trademark can help you grow your brand, preserve your identity in the marketplace, and secure your intellectual property rights.
If you are a founder or entrepreneur looking to protect your name, consulting a trademark attorney can provide solid legal guidance. A trademark law expert can outline the steps needed to file your trademark application and ensure compliance with U.S. trademark law.
