If the Secretary of State of Maryland registers a trademark or service mark, may the registrant use the ® designation with the mark?
No. This designation is reserved for trademarks and service marks registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. A person who claims ownership of a particular trademark or service mark may use the designation “TM” or “SM” regardless of whether the mark is registered with any office.
Related Questions
- May a trademark or service mark be registered with the Secretary of State before it has actually been used in the sale of goods and services?
- Does registration with the Secretary of State prevent others from registering the same or similar trademark, service mark in other states?
- If the Secretary of State of Maryland registers a trademark or service mark, may the registrant use the ® designation with the mark?