What is a Notice of Trademark Registration?
A trademark or service mark registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office may be used with an “R” enclosed within a circle () or “Reg. U.S. Pat. Off.” to provide notice that the mark is officially registered. If a mark is registered and notice is provided, an owner of a mark may collect increased damages from an infringer. If a mark is not registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, a “TM” may be used to provide notice but many benefits afforded to owners of registered marks, such as increased damages, will not apply.