By definition, a logo is a graphic mark, emblem, or symbol, which may include an abstract, figurative design, or the text of the name that it is meant to represent. Its primary purpose is to aid and promote public identification and recognition of a brand. So, creating an original logo may work wonders for your business and its brand awareness. With this, you may want to protect its effectiveness at all costs and thereby look into acquiring a copyright for it. Without further ado, please continue reading to learn whether your logo is eligible for copyright protection and how an experienced New Jersey copyright lawyer at The Ingber Law Firm can help you obtain it.
Is my logo eligible for copyright protection?
Well, a copyright is a set of exclusive rights granted by law to an author or creator of an original work. Such an original work may be considered a literary, musical, or dramatic piece, and namely, a graphic design. In turn, a logo is a distinctive mark, emblem, or symbol that falls under the category of a graphic design.
Therefore, you may be eligible to copyright your logo so that it cannot be reproduced, distributed, or used by external third parties without your explicit permission. Further, with copyright protection, you may simultaneously gain the right to pursue legal action against external third parties who directly violate your rights. Lastly, obtaining this protection may prevent any loss of sales, brand confusion, or the dilution of your brand’s reputation amongst prospective customers.
With all that being said, though, you must understand that not all logos may be eligible for copyright protection. That is, a logo must be considered a piece of original artwork, which may consist of artistic creativity, unique illustrations, intricate design elements, and more. So, this is to say that a logo with a simple geometric shape around a brand’s initials may not be original enough to qualify.
What is the difference between copyrighting and trademarking a logo?
To reiterate, copyrighting your logo may work to protect its artistic design. On the other hand, trademarking your logo may work to protect the name or symbol associated with your business and your brand’s identity. In other words, a copyright may better protect you, as the logo creator, while a trademark may better protect the logo itself.
Nonetheless, we may recommend that you apply for both copyright and trademark protection over your logo, to achieve maximum intellectual property protection for yourself, your business, and its brand awareness. In conclusion, there is far more to explain than this blog has only begun to cover. For more information, please get in touch with a skilled Essex County, New Jersey intellectual property lawyer at The Ingber Law Firm. We look forward to collaborating with you.
