If you think you've come up with a cool business name, created a masterpiece, discovered a useful new invention, or uncovered a special twist that improves an existing product, you certainly don't want someone to steal your idea. Ideas for products, inventions, trade names, and even specialized literary content, fall under the category of intellectual property. Here are the three primary ways to protect your intellectual property.
Copyright ©
If you are an author, or an artist/sculptor, you have a legal right to protect anything you write or create. Things that fall under the copyright category of intellectual property are books, music, paintings, sculptures and plays, or motion pictures.
Computer related items also fall under this category. This could be software, databases, video presentations, or online games. If you are in marketing, unique advertising slogans can also warrant copyright protection.
Trademark ™
Brilliant ideas for business or product names fall under trademark law. A trademark differentiates a unique business name or marketing concept from another. It is a sign that establishes a legal right for a person or business to advertise as a unique entity.
Trademarks were derived in ancient times when crafters would etch a special sign, symbol, or their signature in their work to distinguish it from others. Examples of trademarks are company names, business taglines or slogans, and personal logos.
Patent ®
When you feel you have an invention, or improvement on an existing product that is unique, you should apply for a patent on your invention. An accepted patent idea can use the registered product symbol as soon as the patent is filed and pending and after the official patent is granted.
A patent designates you as the owner of the intellectual idea behind the invention. You will have the right to decide who may use the idea, plus how you wish to be compensated for allowing others to use your invention.
Patent documentation must be publicly available, initially as a patent pending. There are time limitations on all patents, and they depend on the type of invention. Your invention will always be your idea, but the time you are allowed to maintain sole ownership and be due all profits is specified by the patent.
The United States Patent and Trademark Office oversees all intellectual property protections. Knowing that there are ways to protect your special idea is the first step. If you think you have a wonderful idea, or name that is unique enough that it may be profitable, you should always consult with a copyright, trademark, or patent attorney.
