TRADEMARK LAW BLOG | LEGAL BASICS FOR BUSINESS OWNERS
Trademark law, explained
the way business owners
actually think about it.
Get straightforward answers to common trademark questions: what registration actually costs, what it protects, and whether it's the right move for where your business is right now. Written by an attorney who's also been the business owner asking these same questions.
From the Blog
Q: What Can a Professional Speaker Protect With a Trademark?
What can a professional speaker actually protect with a trademark? I break down what’s protectable, what isn’t, and what’s worth your money. ...more
Podcast ,Education
October 27, 2026•3 min read
From Business Owner to North Carolina Based Trademark Lawyer
Why Attorney Chelsea Fournier stepped away from law, spent ten years as a business owner, and came back as a North Carolina based federal trademark lawyer. ...more
Education
October 24, 2026•10 min read
Q: How Much Does It Cost To Register a Trademark in 2026? (filing fees + legal fee estimates)
How much does it cost to register a trademark in 2026? I explain USPTO filing fees, attorney costs, and your options for protecting your business name without unexpected expenses. ...more
Podcast ,Education
October 20, 2026•3 min read
Q: What Is the Trademark Application Process and Timeline?
What is the trademark application process and how long does it take? Attorney Chelsea Fournier breaks down the key steps, deadlines, and timeline from filing to registration. ...more
Podcast ,Education
October 13, 2026•3 min read
How to Prepare for a Free Consultation with a Trademark Attorney
What should you expect from a free trademark consultation call? Learn what to prepare, what to ask, and how to make the most of your call. ...more
Podcast ,Education
October 06, 2026•6 min read
Q: When to Trademark Your Name — Before or After Launch?
Should you trademark your name before or after you launch? I walk through the USPTO timeline, your upfront investment, and the risk of waiting. ...more
Podcast ,Education
September 29, 2026•2 min read
Q: Do I Need a Trademark If I Have an LLC For My Business?
In this episode of Trademarks with Chelsea podcast, I explain how to protect your business name and what an LLC actually protects, vs. a trademark registration. ...more
Podcast ,Education
September 22, 2026•3 min read
Q: Why Would a Marketing / Branding Agency Need A Trademark?
Why would a marketing or branding agency need a trademark? I explain how trademark protection can protect your own agency, help you better serve clients, and create opportunities for future growth. ...more
Podcast ,Education
September 15, 2026•3 min read
Q: What If Someone Trademarked My Business Name Before I Do?
What happens if someone else has trademarked the name you’re using for your business? I break down what it means, what your options are, and what to consider before you panic and change your name. ...more
Podcast ,Education
September 08, 2026•3 min read
Q: Trademark Clearance Search or Knockout Search—Which Do I Need?
When should you do a trademark knockout search versus a clearance search? I break down the difference and help you decide which is right for your business. ...more
Podcast ,Education
September 01, 2026•3 min read
Q: Why Would a Breathwork Facilitator Need a Trademark?
What is the purpose of a trademark for a breathwork facilitator? I explain what you can protect and how trademarks can support your growing business. ...more
Podcast ,Education
August 25, 2026•2 min read
Q: How Do I Know if a Business Name is Taken Already?
How do I know if a business name is taken? I break down what a Google search won't tell you, and how to actually find out before you launch. ...more
Podcast ,Education
August 18, 2026•3 min read
Q: Hire a Lawyer or a Filing Service to Trademark My Brand?
Hire a lawyer or a trademark filing service? I break down what each path actually includes, and what to ask before you pay to trademark your brand. ...more
Podcast ,Education
August 14, 2026•2 min read
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