Should I have an Item 19 (Financial Performance Representations) in my FDD?
If you are looking for a one word answer, then it is YES. You should have a Financial Performance Representation, or Item 19, in your Franchise Disclosure Document. The FPR is the first step in the…
What are the benefits of having an Item 19 (Financial Performance Representations) in my FDD?
No one wants to air their dirty laundry in public, but having an accurate Financial Performance Representation in your Franchise Disclosure Documents will help your franchise rather than hurt it. You…
How are franchise lawyers different from general business lawyers?
Although you might be tempted to scrimp on a lawyer because you are already sinking so much money into buying a franchise, this is not a good idea. As the old saying goes, you get what you pay…
Understanding the difference between trademark and copyright
When creating a new product or service, or even forming a new entity, understanding the differences between trademarks and copyrights can be vital. The first step is really a simple one: it’s…
Why Your Trademark Application Needs One Last Extension
“Laughter is the best medicine, but your insurance only covers chuckles, snickers and giggles.” We’ve all been there. Whether it’s buying AppleCare or upgrading insurance on your rental car, odds are…
Trademark Scams
We have been trying to reach you about your car’s extended warranty…. a member of the royal family would like to transfer a large amount of money to you…. your Netflix password has been compromised,…
What is a Trademark Disclaimer?
A disclaimer is a statement that indicates that the applicant does not have the exclusive right to use a specific word of a trademark by itself. Disclaimers are required for composite trademarks…
Trademarks, Goods and State Lines.
I don’t distribute my goods out of state. Can I still trademark my names? The short answer is YES! The Lanham Act (also known as the Trademark Act of 1946) is the federal statute that governs…
Clothing Trademarks
Ornamental Refusal? Wait… what? Is your apparel graphic a “brand identifier” or just decoration? An ornamental refusal is when the USPTO refuses registration of your trademark because the specimen…