Trademark law is designed to protect business goodwill by protecting consumers from confusing various producers of goods or providers of services. Trademark Law requires registration for the holder of the trademark in order for him to obtain legal protection. Unlike copyright law, which protects content from copying, trademark protects the meaning of the mark to the mind of the consumer. If you choose a business, logo or product name that’s too similar to a competitor’s name, for instance, you could find yourself accused of violating the competitor’s trademark, and you could be forced to change your business name, logo or product name, and possibly pay money damages.
Some people decide to hire a trademark lawyer to advise them on the choice and registration of a trademark or service mark. The best way to find a good trademark lawyer in your area is to contact other people or businesses who would have reason to use one, and get their recommendation. After you have three or four names of trademark lawyers, start investigating them.