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What is the difference between a
"copyright" and "trademark?"
Q: What is the difference between a "copyright" and "trademark?"
A: Copyrights and Trademarks are often misunderstood and confused with each other. Here is some basic information about to help you understand their importance.
A copyright protects a "form of expression" such as writings, designs, and works of art. A copyright is automatic in that anything you write, design, or otherwise conceive, is protected by the copyright laws. This protection generally lasts for your lifetime plus 50 years.
A copyright may be registered with the Patent and Trademark Office. Having your copyright registered can help if and when you need to defend it use by others.
A trademark is a word or series of words, a design or graphic that relates to your product, service, or company. A trademark must be registered with the Patent and Trademark Office and cost a few hundred dollars.
Learn more at the Patent and Trademark website, http://www.uspto.gov or call them at 1 (800) PTO-9199. There is also a help line at (703) 308 4357.
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