What is the difference between the circled R, circled C, and TM symbols?
If you want to claim the rights of a name or logo, use the TM (trademark) or SM (service mark) designation to give notice to the public about your claim. This use of the TM or SM Trademark Symbol does not mean a legally enforceable trademark. The registration symbol, , however, does carry legal weight. It may only be used when the mark is registered in the PTO. The symbol may be used only after the registration has been approved by the U.S. trademark office. A circled C means copyright. A copyright notice or copyright symbol is an identifier placed on copies of the work to inform the world of copyright ownership. While use of a copyright notice was once required as a condition of copyright protection, it is now optional. Use of the copyright notice is the responsibility of the copyright owner and does not require advance permission from, or registration with the Copyright Office. Because prior law did contain such a requirement, however, the use of a copyright notice or copyright symbo
