What is the difference between a preliminary scan versus a full search?
A preliminary scan is a quick, limited search designed to find out whether there are identical and very similar marks. Generally a preliminary scan searches the U.S. federal and the fifty U.S. states trademark registries. A preliminary scan would reveal whether an identical mark has been filed or registered by others. In contrast, a full search will also reveal what trademark professionals commonly refer to as common law usage. Common law usage is name, slogan, etc. used to identify a business in commerce but are not registered in either the federal or state trademark registries. If time is available, then it is strongly recommended that a full search be conducted before filing a trademark application.
