If you're an entrepreneur, you know that protecting your intellectual property should be high on your list when it comes to safeguarding your company. However, as a successful business owner, you also know the steps and costs of filing a trademark in the U.S. can be expensive and arduous.
This conundrum can be even more overwhelming for new business owners who want to do everything possible to minimize the price of securing trademarks. They try to handle complicated tasks like trademark registration on their own, which can be a big mistake - especially when juggling the day-to-day tasks of running a business. You may be thinking, "But what about those set-it-and-forget-it services you can find online? All you have to do is plug in your info, and you're done." Using pre-made templates for trademark filing can be tempting, but doing so can leave you with inadequate protection and hurt you in the long run.
So, what is the easiest, most cost-effective route to consider that also minimizes legal risk? The truth is, before you spend money on an online filing service, it's best to consult with a trademark attorney working with clients in Savannah, GA.
At Sausser Summers, PC, our experienced trademark attorneys can help you understand the trademark process step by step. We can even help with U.S. trademark filing, U.S. trademark responses, and U.S. trademark renewals at a price you can actually afford. That way, you can make an informed decision regarding your business without having to break the bank.
Hiring an attorney can be a daunting task, but at Sausser Summers, PC, our goal is to make the process as simple and seamless as possible for you. That's why we offer a straightforward checkout service. First, you choose your flat fee trademark service and fill out a short questionnaire. Then, we will contact you within 24 hours to discuss the details of our service. From there, one of our experienced trademark attorneys will get to work on your behalf.
Using a trademark attorney for filing in Savannah, GA, can significantly increase your chances of a successful registration. The U.S. government recommends hiring a trademark attorney to help with your application, and our team of trademark lawyers is dedicated to meeting your needs. In fact, we help ensure your application is filed correctly the first time so you can get on with your life and avoid legal risks.
At Sausser Summers, PC, we work closely with our clients to understand their needs and provide them with sound professional advice. We never offer incomplete services, such as simply filing for registration, because that would leave you open to legal risks. You can rely on us to handle your intellectual property matters, and our flat fee services can help protect your business in a simple, straightforward, and affordable way. It's really that simple.
In terms of filing a U.S. trademark, we provide an easy three-step process to protect your intellectual property:
1. You provide your trademark info to our team via an online form.
2. Our team performs a comprehensive trademark search. This search ensures that no other marks will prevent you from registering your trademark in the U.S. Once performed, we'll send you a legal opinion letter that details our findings.
3. Sausser Summers, PC, files your U.S. trademark application. We are then listed as your Attorney of Record on file. From there, we'll provide ongoing updates regarding the status of your trademark as it works through the registration process.
The bottom line? At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.
At Sausser Summers, PC, we give both new and seasoned business owners an easy, efficient, cost-effective way to protect the one asset that sets them apart from others: their name.
It's not necessary to be a lawyer in order to apply for a trademark. Anyone can submit a trademark application to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). However, registering a trademark involves more than just filling out a form. It's essential to conduct thorough research, accurately identify and clearly explain your trademark to ensure it receives adequate protection. And even after securing a trademark, you've got to monitor it consistently to make sure it's free from infringement.
The big takeaway here is that it's always a good idea to work with a trademark attorney to protect the intellectual property that you've worked so hard to establish. According to the Wall Street Journal, applicants are approximately 50% more likely to secure their trademark than people who file applications on their own. If your trademark application is rejected by the USPTO, you will need to revise and refile it, incurring additional filing fees. To avoid delays and extra costs, it is best to have a trademark lawyer help you get it right the first time.
Great trademark attorneys (like those you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC) will help with every step of filing and enforcing your trademark. Some additional benefits include the following:
Check to see if your proposed trademark is registered by another entity.
Conduct research to see if another business is using the trademark for which you're applying.
Provide advice and guidance on the strength of your trademark.
Draft and submit your trademark applications and application revisions.
Advice and guidance regarding trademark maintenance and protection.
Monitor the market for unauthorized use of your trademark.
Trademark enforcement to protect you against infringement.
Curious whether our trademark attorney services are right for you and your business? Contact Sausser Summer, PC, today. Let's talk about what you need, and how we can help.
Online services, can provide you with basic assistance in filing your trademark. However, they will never be a legitimate substitute for an experienced trademark attorney helping clients in Savannah, GA.
Although online filing services offer a step-by-step process, they take a one-size-fits-all approach to preparing legal documents. Even their advanced service only provides basic attorney assistance in completing your paperwork and helping with minor roadblocks. Online filing services' disclaimer highlights the many limitations of its services, including the fact that communications are not protected by attorney-client privilege. In addition, online filing services cannot provide advice, explanations, opinions, recommendations, or any kind of legal guidance on possible legal rights, remedies, defenses, options, selection of forms or strategies.
In other words, online filing services can offer you the necessary forms and point you in the right direction, but they cannot customize their services to your specific needs or help you with serious complications that may arise.
For the most comprehensive trademark service and protection, it's always wise to work with highly rated trademark lawyers, like you'll find at Sausser Summers, PC.
Trademarks in the U.S. can last indefinitely, but did you know that clients in Savannah, GA can file a trademark online, only to lose protection in some circumstances? Trademarks differ from patents and copyrights in that they do not have an expiration date. However, to prevent the cancellation of a trademark, you must maintain it. To ensure that your trademark remains protected, you must actively use it in commerce and renew it with the USPTO every ten years.
The Lanham Act tells us that "use in commerce" is the legitimate use of a trademark in the ordinary course of trade. In other words, you cannot register a trademark solely to reserve the rights to it in the future. In most cases, a trademark must be used continuously in connection with the goods or services it is registered for.
Trademarks are registered with the USPTO and generally need to be renewed every ten years. However, there is one crucial exception that you should be aware of. Within the first ten years of owning a trademark, you must file for renewal between the fifth and sixth year from the date of your initial registration.
During this renewal period, you are required to submit a Section 8 declaration, a specimen that shows how the mark is being used, and pay the required fee. You can also apply for Section 15 Incontestability status, which can strengthen your trademark rights. This application, although not mandatory, can make it harder for others to challenge your ownership of the mark.
After the first renewal, which falls between the fifth and sixth year of ownership, the next renewal filing is due between the ninth and tenth year, and then every tenth year thereafter. In the ninth year you will need to file a Section 8 declaration, attesting to your use of the mark or excusable nonuse. You've also got to file a Section 9 renewal application before the end of the tenth year to keep your registration active.
It is worth noting that the USPTO provides a six-month grace period if you fail to renew your mark within the required time frame, but it is best not to rely on it. If you don't file within the grace period time limits, the USPTO will cancel and expire your mark.
By hiring trademark attorneys helping clients in Savannah, GA, you can avoid the pitfalls and mistakes that can arise and cause you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it.
In the event that you stop using your trademark and have no plans to resume using it in commerce, it may be considered abandoned by the USPTO. This could result in the loss of your protective rights to the mark. Typically, a trademark is assumed to be abandoned if it has not been used for three years. However, you may be able to refute this presumption by providing evidence that you intend to use the mark again in the future.
In addition to trademark abandonment, you should also be wary of improper licensing. It's important to remember that once you allow someone else to use your trademark, you must keep an eye on how they use it. You should monitor the products or services that feature your trademark to ensure that they meet consumers' expectations in terms of quality. Failure to do so can lead to a "naked" trademark license and the loss of your protective trademark rights.
If you're wondering how you can avoid refiling your trademark, the answer is simple: file it correctly the first time around. Filing a trademark isn't inherently difficult, but when doing so, it's very important that certain aspects are filled out accurately in your application. If any information is missing or incorrect, the trademark application may be considered "void ab initio" or void from the beginning, requiring you to file again.
To avoid this, make sure that the information you provide in the application is accurate and complete, including the ownership of the trademark. For instance, if a corporation has multiple shareholders, it should not file under the President's personal name. The rightful owner should be the one/entity that ultimately controls the trademark and the associated goods/services.
It is also important to ensure that the goods and/or services description is precise. For example, if you sell electronic products, you should not file for research and development services despite having a research and development department. The goods/services description should reflect the goods/services you offer to customers, not the departments within your business.
Additionally, providing accurate dates of first use when filing for a trademark is crucial. The USPTO requires two dates to be specified - the date of first use anywhere and the date of first use in interstate commerce. Contact our trademark law office today to learn more about having accurate dates on your filing paperwork.
At Sausser Summers, PC, we often get questions about how to distinguish run-of-the-mill consultants and others from great trademark attorneys. After all - when you're looking for an attorney to file or prosecute your business trademark, you should know their qualifications. Here are three ways you can separate the proverbial wheat from the chaff when it comes to trademark attorneys.
It's crucial to seek legal advice from a licensed trademark lawyer rather than relying on advice from non-professionals like trademark consultants. The USPTO even recommends hiring an attorney to help with the trademark process. Although trademark consultants may provide advice on trademark availability or name marketability, they cannot file the trademark for you or offer legal advice. According to the Rules of Practicing in trademark cases, "Individuals who are not attorneys are not recognized to practice before the Office in trademark matters." This rule applies to individuals who assist trademark applicants.
When searching for a trademark attorney, it's important to find someone with a strong background in trademark law. Look for an attorney who specializes in this area and has significant experience handling trademark-related cases. Avoid lawyers who don't have expertise in this field, as they may not be able to provide the guidance and support you need.
Ensure your attorney provides updates throughout the trademark registration process to avoid missing deadlines, including responding to any Office actions within six months. Failure to do so can result in trademark abandonment. The USPTO will only correspond with the listed attorney of record, so make sure your attorney keeps you informed.
In summary:
Building your brand and gaining recognition for it is a significant achievement, and it's important to protect it. However, there are certain pitfalls and mistakes that can arise, causing you to lose your rights to the mark that represents it. By working with knowledgeable trademark attorneys, you can avoid these issues and file your trademark successfully.
With an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Sausser Summers, PC, offers comprehensive guidance, strategic advice, and reliable representation for a variety of trademark matters. Our attorneys have years of real-world experience and, having registered countless trademarks with the USPTO, provide our clients with individualized representation when they need it most.
If you're looking for skilled, adept, and experienced counsel, look no further than our trademark law firm. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and learn how we can help you safeguard your brand.
WJCL 22 Impact Days are in place for Southeast Georgia and the Lowcountry for Thursday and Friday. Thursday morning starts frigid with freezing temperatures across the area. Lows will dip to the mid to upper 20s inland, and near 30 degrees at the coast.A winter storm impacts the Southeast with rain, freezing rain, sleet, and snow on Friday.Hearst OwnedImpact Days Thursday and FridayThe onset of precipitation for Southeast Georgia and the Lowcountry will be after 9-10am Friday. With cold air aloft in place, there's...
WJCL 22 Impact Days are in place for Southeast Georgia and the Lowcountry for Thursday and Friday. Thursday morning starts frigid with freezing temperatures across the area. Lows will dip to the mid to upper 20s inland, and near 30 degrees at the coast.
A winter storm impacts the Southeast with rain, freezing rain, sleet, and snow on Friday.
Hearst Owned
Impact Days Thursday and Friday
The onset of precipitation for Southeast Georgia and the Lowcountry will be after 9-10am Friday. With cold air aloft in place, there's a chance that some inland locations will see a brief wintry mix by late morning, midday, or early afternoon. The mix may include rain, sleet, or a few snowflakes.
Areas near and east of I-95 have a higher chance of seeing all rain.
Hearst Owned
Wintry mix or rain possible Friday
Any brief mix will melt as it hits the pavement with surface temperatures in the upper 30s to low 40s by late morning. If the wintry mix occurs this will be more of something you see as it falls, not a repeat of January 3, 2018 where you could play in the snow.
Here is a look at late morning forecast temperatures on Friday.
The greatest impacts from this winter storm will be across North Georgia and the central and western Carolinas.
Winter Storm Watches are in place for North Georgia and western South Carolina. The watch includes Atlanta and Athens.
The highest chance of seeing 2" or more of snow is across extreme North Georgia. The Atlanta area has a lower chance of seeing 2"+ of snow.
The Atlanta metro area may see snow, sleet, and freezing rain. The threat of freezing rain and ice accumulation will be highest from Atlanta to near Columbia, SC.
For the Savannah area rain showers are likely Friday afternoon into Friday night. The winter storm will be a quick mover which means the weekend looks dry after daybreak Saturday.
For the latest weather information and the area's certified most accurate forecast watch WJCL 22 News or check the free WJCL 22 News App. You can get weather updates anytime on social media...follow me on X here or on Facebook here.
Jeremy Nelson
WJCL 22 Chief Meteorologist
Cision PR NewswireNews provided by Inman Park Properties Inc. SAVANNAH, Ga., Jan. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a significant development for both Savannah and Georgia's broader historic preservation efforts, Jeff Notrica, President of Inman Park Properties Inc., a Georgia corporation founded in 1993 specializing in restoration of historic buildings, has been voted as the new Chairman of the Historic Preservation Com...
News provided by
SAVANNAH, Ga., Jan. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a significant development for both Savannah and Georgia's broader historic preservation efforts, Jeff Notrica, President of Inman Park Properties Inc., a Georgia corporation founded in 1993 specializing in restoration of historic buildings, has been voted as the new Chairman of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) of Savannah. With his strong commitment to preserving architectural heritage, Notrica's leadership is expected to usher in an era of robust advocacy for historic preservation, ensuring that both Savannah and Georgia's iconic buildings stand the test of time.
A New Era for the Historic Preservation Commission
The Historic Preservation Commission, an influential body responsible for preserving Savannah's architectural legacy, has seen leadership transitions in the past. However, the election of Jeff Notrica to the Chairman's seat has garnered significant attention due to his longstanding track record of working toward the protection of historic properties across Georgia.
As the President of Inman Park Properties, Notrica has long been recognized for his hands-on approach to saving and restoring iconic structures. His work has not only contributed to revitalizing neighborhoods but has also played a key role in advocating for sustainable development that respects the architectural integrity of historically significant sites.
A Focus on Saving Historic Properties
One of Notrica's top priorities as Chairman of the HPC is to combat the growing threat of demolition facing Georgia's historic properties. Many older buildings across Savannah and the state are at risk, as developers eye them for potential redevelopment projects. While the promise of progress often brings modern amenities and new developments, Notrica and other preservationists argue that the cultural value embedded in these historic sites cannot be replaced.
"Historic properties are not just buildings—they are storytellers, holding the memories and the legacies of our past," Notrica said in a statement after his appointment. "We cannot afford to let these treasures be torn down or carelessly modified in the name of progress. I'm committed to making sure Savannah and Georgia lead the way in preservation and thoughtful development."
Savannah, renowned for its cobblestone streets, moss-draped oaks, and colonial architecture, faces particular challenges when it comes to maintaining its historic character. In the face of rapid urban development, Notrica's leadership is seen as vital in ensuring that these precious assets are not lost to modernity.
Advocacy for Preservation Through Collaboration
Notrica's approach to historic preservation is grounded in collaboration. Under his leadership, the HPC plans to engage more actively with local developers, architects, and government officials to find solutions that balance growth and preservation. By fostering dialogue and cooperation, Notrica hopes to make preservation a central part of the conversation surrounding new development projects.
His efforts also include strengthening community education on the value of preserving historic properties, making sure that local residents understand not only the historical and cultural significance of their neighborhoods but also the economic benefits preservation can bring. In many cases, restoring historic buildings can lead to revitalized local economies, attracting tourism and business investment while enhancing quality of life for residents.
A Broader Impact on Georgia's Historic Preservation Movement
Though Savannah is often the focal point of historic preservation conversations in Georgia, Notrica's efforts as Chairman extend well beyond the city limits. The state of Georgia is home to numerous historic sites, many of which are at risk of being lost. From colonial-era structures to 20th-century buildings reflecting the state's growth and change, Notrica's work will have a far-reaching impact.
His efforts align with broader statewide initiatives aimed at preserving the cultural and historical integrity of Georgia's built environment. As the new Chairman, Notrica will work alongside preservation organizations, local governments, and developers across the state to create stronger protections for these vulnerable properties and raise awareness about their historical significance.
A Vision for the Future
With Jeff Notrica at the helm, the Historic Preservation Commission is poised for a period of innovation in preservation. By leveraging his expertise in both real estate and historic restoration, Notrica is uniquely positioned to guide Savannah and Georgia into a future where development and preservation are not mutually exclusive but work in harmony.
In a rapidly changing world, Notrica's work represents a commitment to safeguarding the past while ensuring that the future remains respectful of the rich cultural tapestry that makes Savannah and Georgia unique. As he takes on this new role, the state can be assured that its architectural legacy will continue to be protected and celebrated for generations to come.
Alison Gordon
(404) 986-8956
View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/jeff-notrica-voted-new-chairman-of-savannahs-historic-preservation-commission-championing-the-preservation-of-georgias-architectural-heritage-302350739.html
SOURCE Inman Park Properties Inc.
NOTE: This content is not written by or endorsed by "WGNO", its advertisers, or Nexstar Media Inc.
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Any parent knows that caring for a bundle of joy can be wonderful but having a baby―especially during the holidays―can break the budget if a parent is out of work or raising a child on their own.The bottom line is this: Some parents need help acquiring diapers and wipes for their babies and toddlers.Parents may still be reeling from the pandemic as well as recent storms and hurricanes that may have affected jobs, which also puts a hardship on buying even the barest of necessities. The price of disposable diapers, for exampl...
Any parent knows that caring for a bundle of joy can be wonderful but having a baby―especially during the holidays―can break the budget if a parent is out of work or raising a child on their own.
The bottom line is this: Some parents need help acquiring diapers and wipes for their babies and toddlers.
Parents may still be reeling from the pandemic as well as recent storms and hurricanes that may have affected jobs, which also puts a hardship on buying even the barest of necessities. The price of disposable diapers, for example, has increased more than 22% since the pandemic, according to figures compiled by Over the Moon, a non-profit Coastal Georgia diaper supply bank.
For those reasons, Over the Moon is hosting a Great Big Diaper Giveaway from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., on Sat., Dec. 14, at White Bluff United Methodist Church, 11911 White Bluff Road. The drive-thru event is first come, first served and will continue until supplies run out.
Let there be lights!All the places to see sparkle and shine this holiday season
Katie Griffith, executive director of Over the Moon, said all are welcome to attend and no documentation is required.
“Over 50,000 diapers in sizes 1 to 6 are ready to be distributed,” she said, adding that baby wipes and period products also will be available. However, no training pants or adult items will be offered.
Griffith started the all-volunteer Over the Moon organization out of her house in 2019 with support from friends and family after she realized the need for such an organization. One of Over the Moon missions is to fill a void that safety-net programs―such as WIC and SNAP benefits―do not cover the cost of diapers, Griffith said.
“The (Dec. 14 giveaway) is special because we are offering families 100 diapers per child to help fill the gap a bit deeper during this holiday season,” she explained. Diaper supplies are donated by Huggies through the National Diaper Bank and Baby2Baby networks.
“On a local level we work with businesses, churches, students, families and schools that host diaper drives on our behalf,” Griffith explained. “We apply for grants and use financial donations to purchase diapers in bulk at a deep discount throughout the region (from Brunswick to Beaufort, S.C.) These partner programs distribute items on our behalf in conjunction with food and other services directly to families in need."
When Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene hit Georgia and affected 16 counties, Over the Moon sprang into action and distributed more than 200,000 supplies to residents of those areas, Griffith said.
“This upcoming distribution also will serve as an extension of long-term assistance to families that need help due to lost wages, damage, and other difficulties due to the storms,” she said.
Griffith said Over the Moon has been growing steadily since it started and includes 12 counties in Coastal Georgia and three in South Carolina.
“We received a grant in January from the One Hundred Children's Foundation that allowed us to place Moon Lockers (filled with diapers) in South Carolina libraries,” she said.
For more details, visit Over the Moon’s website or follow on Facebook or Instagram @overthemoondb. Products for this giveaway are provided in part by Baby2Baby, the National Diaper Bank Network, the Rotary Club of Metropolitan Savannah, and in partnership with White Bluff Methodist, Amerigroup and I Heart Radio.
Over the Moon is a volunteer-led, 501(c)3 nonprofit and member of the National Diaper Bank Network, the Alliance for Period Supplies, the Georgia STOMP Coalition,Georgia Diaper Bank Coalition, the Coastal Empire Disaster Relief Committee, and is a Baby2Baby-affiliate organization.
What: Great Big (Drive-Thru) Diaper Giveaway (No documentation needed).
Where: White Bluff United Methodist Church, 11911 White Bluff Road
When: Saturday, Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or until supplies run out.
Sponsor: Over the Moon Diaper Bank
Info: Over the Moon on Facebook, @overthemoondb on Instagram, [email protected]
SAVANNAH, Ga. —Update Tuesday 9:30 a.m.: The City has lifted the boil water advisory for the 75 households affected by Sunday’s water main break based on lab results from a water quality test. Tests revealed no contamination. Customers may resume normal water usage.Repairs to the roadway continue today. Drivers are highly encouraged to use alternate routes if possible. Traffic on DeRenne will continue to move but delays are expected. An update will be issued when the roadway ...
SAVANNAH, Ga. —
Update Tuesday 9:30 a.m.:
The City has lifted the boil water advisory for the 75 households affected by Sunday’s water main break based on lab results from a water quality test. Tests revealed no contamination. Customers may resume normal water usage.
Repairs to the roadway continue today. Drivers are highly encouraged to use alternate routes if possible. Traffic on DeRenne will continue to move but delays are expected. An update will be issued when the roadway is fully reopened.
Prior updates:
Road closures remain on DeRenne Ave. from a water main break upends the street causing traffic concerns.
Alderman Nick Palumbo says the weather made for the perfect storm to cause the break, adding a boil advisory is to keep everyone safe.
“Sedimentary elements in the water system can come through your faucets. Issuing a boil water advisory helps protect those residents and make sure that there isn't anything nasty in the water that they need to be concerned about.” said Palumbo.
Update Monday 11:25 a.m.:
City crews have reduced westbound traffic to one lane to open one eastbound lane. Turning onto Reynolds St. from DeRenne still remains unavailable.
Drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes when possible.
Traffic on DeRenne will continue to move but delays are expected.
An update will be issued when the roadway is fully reopened as repairs continue over the next few days.
Water Resource crews began water quality testing of the repaired waterline this morning. A notice will be sent out when the boil water advisory is lifted for the households affected.
Initial report:
Crews continue to assess and make repairs to a major Savannah roadway following a weekend waterline break.
While a portion of westbound DeRenne Avenue and one eastbound lane that were closed Sunday have fully reopened, drivers are still unable to turn onto Reynolds Street from DeRenne.
Motorists are highly encouraged to use alternate routes when possible.
Repairs to the damaged waterline have also been completed. Hydrant flushing has commenced, and water quality testing will begin today. A notice will be sent out when the boil water advisory is lifted.
Residents in the impacted area and those nearby who experience a loss of water pressure should follow these guidelines:
Steps to Boil Water Safely:
Use Boiled or Bottled Water for:
Activities That Do Not Require Boiled Water: