Best Trademark Services in California 2023: Top 8 Picks


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Best Trademark Services in California

In today’s competitive business environment, protecting your brand is crucial. Registering your trademark is one of the best ways to secure your brand. Trademark services can help you form an LLC in California and protect your intellectual property. This blog post will discuss the importance of trademarks and best California trademark services to help you make the best decision for your business.

As a business owner, you understand the importance of building a strong brand when starting an LLC in California. Your brand represents your company’s values, products or services, and reputation. It sets you apart from your competitors and creates a loyal customer base. Let LLCBase be your trusted partner in navigating the competitive California market and ensuring your brand stands out and remains protected.

What is a Trademark

A trademark is a symbol, word, phrase, or design that identifies and distinguishes the source of products or services from those of others. It acts as a “brand” for your business, ensuring that customers can recognize your products and services from your competitors. Registering a trademark in California gives you exclusive rights to use that mark with your products or services. It can prevent others from using a similar mark, which may confuse consumers.

Why LLC Trademark Services are Important

Registering a trademark is essential for small businesses to protect their brand and intellectual property. Here are some reasons why LLC trademark services are important when you are starting a small business in California:

  1. Protect your brand: A registered trademark helps protect your brand by preventing others from using a similar mark that may confuse consumers.
  2. Nationwide protection: Registering a trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) provides nationwide protection for your mark, ensuring you have exclusive rights to use it nationwide.
  3. Enhance your brand’s value: A registered trademark can add value to your brand, making it more attractive to potential investors or buyers.
  4. Legal recourse: If someone infringes on your trademark, you have the legal right to act against them and seek damages for any harm they have caused your business.

The LLCBase Editorial Team has discovered the best trademark registration services in California. These industry-leading providers stand out for their exceptional efficiency and dependability, ensuring the best experience for businesses needing to protect their intellectual property.

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#1 Editor's Choice

$599 + Federal Fee

  • Trademark Search

  • Trademark Registration

  • Trademark monitoring

$239.99/year

  • Single Subscription

  • Trademark Registration

  • Attorney service for Trademark

Top 8 California LLC Trademark Registration Services

When registering a trademark in California, several reputable trademark registration services are available to assist you. These top 8 California LLC trademark registration services help streamline the registration process and provide valuable guidance and support to ensure your brand’s protection. By choosing one of these top-rated services, you can be confident that your business’s intellectual property is in good hands and that your trademark registration will be handled professionally and efficiently.

1. LegalZoom

Best Trademark Services in California

LegalZoom is another well-known company that offers trademark services for your California LLC. They have been in the industry for years and have a strong reputation for providing reliable services.

LegalZoom offers trademark search, registration, and monitoring services. Their comprehensive trademark search helps identify any potential conflicts, ensuring your desired trademark is available for registration. Once registered, LegalZoom provides monitoring services to protect your intellectual property from infringement.

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Their trademark registration package includes the following:

  • Federal Trademark Search: Starts at $199
  • Trademark Registration: $599 + Federal Fees
  • Trademark Monitoring: $175 per year

LegalZoom also offers business formation service packages that start at $0 for the basic package, with additional costs for more comprehensive services. LegalZoom also offers excellent customer support to guide you through the trademark process. Check our comprehensive LegalZoom review to know more about their services.

  • Basic Plan: $0 plus $70 filing fees
    • Preparation and filing of Articles of Organization
    • Name availability search
    • Lifetime customer support
    • Standard LLC formation process
  • Pro Plan: $249 plus $70  filing fees
    • Access to operating agreement templates
    • Employer Identification Number (EIN)
    • Business licenses and permits guide
    • Tax and insurance guidance
    • Financial account authorization letter
  • Premium Plan: $299 plus $70 filing fees
    • Attorney services for 30 days subscription
    • Additional business services such as websites, email, and more
Pros
  • Comprehensive trademark registration services
  • Extensive legal resources and business tools available
  • Easy-to-use online system
  • Legal advisors are available to provide assistance
Cons
  • Expensive compared to other service providers
  • Some mixed reviews regarding customer service
  • Frequent upselling of additional services

2. RocketLawyer

Best Trademark Services in California

RocketLawyer is a well-established company that offers legal services, including trademark services for your California LLC. They have a reputation for providing quality services and excellent customer support.

RocketLawyer provides trademark search and registration services and trademark consultations with experienced attorneys. Their trademark search helps identify potential conflicts with existing trademarks, ensuring your desired trademark is available for registration. Their trademark consultation service can provide valuable guidance and advice for protecting intellectual property.

Attorneys may charge a hefty fee for handling your trademark application, but Rocket Lawyer offers an affordable alternative at just $699.99 for non-members and $349.99 for new or existing Premium members. New members can enjoy a 50% discount and a FREE 7-Day Trial of Premium monthly membership, automatically applied during checkout (though this can be removed if you prefer to pay full price). Sign in as an existing Premium member, and your discount will instantly apply at checkout.

Please note that USPTO fees, typically between $250-$350 per filing class, are not included and must be paid directly to the USPTO without additional charges or markups.

Pricing for Rocket Lawyer’s services depends on your needs and membership status. Non-members can access their trademark services at a higher price, while members receive discounts on trademark services as part of their membership. Rocket Lawyer offers exceptional customer support to help you through the trademark process. Read our exhaustive RocketLawyer review to know more about their amazing services.

  • Free Trial: $0 plus $70 filing fees
    • Consult a lawyer for legal questions
    • Document defense on RocketLawyer documents
    • Create, edit, and sign documents
    • Free incorporation filing for new members (only state fees apply)
    • 30-minute consultation on new legal matters
    • Discounts on legal services

To sign up for the free trial, visit RocketLawyer’s website and create an account. Keep in mind that after the trial period, you’ll automatically be enrolled in the Premium plan, which costs $39.99 per month, unless you cancel the subscription before the trial ends.

  • Premium Plan: $39.99 plus $70 filing fees
    • Unlimited access to legal documents
    • Ask a lawyer unlimited legal questions
    • Document Defense® on RocketLawyer documents
    • 30-minute free consultation on new legal matters
    • Discounted legal services
    • Free incorporation services for new businesses
Pros
  • Easy-to-use online platform
  • Offers additional features such as legal documents and attorney consultation
  • Subscription package available, which includes reduced pricing on trademark registration
Cons
  • Charges extra for some features that are commonly included in other services
  • Some mixed reviews regarding customer support
  • Non-subscribers can find their services quite expensive

3. Inc Authority

Best Trademark Services in California

Inc Authority is a reputable company that assists with California LLC formation and trademark services in California. They have a strong reputation for providing excellent customer service and helping businesses protect their intellectual property.

Inc Authority offers trademark search, registration, and monitoring services for your California LLC. Their trademark search helps you identify potential conflicts with existing trademarks, ensuring your desired trademark is available for registration. Once registered, they provide monitoring services to protect your intellectual property from infringement.

Creating a common law trademark doesn’t incur any costs since it’s established through its usage. Conversely, obtaining a federally registered trademark can be more expensive, typically from $3,000 to $4,000. Protect your brand by exploring the right trademark option that suits your needs and budget.

Pricing for Inc Authority’s trademark services varies depending on your needs, with packages starting at $0. They also offer exceptional customer support to help you navigate the trademark process.

  • Basic Plan: $0 plus $70 filing fees
  • Starter Business Bundle: $369.95 plus $70  filing fees
Pros
  • Competitive pricing for trademark registration
  • Offers additional business formation services
  • Custom packages are available
  • Rated highly for customer service
Cons
  • Limited online resources related to trademark registration
  • Geographic coverage is limited compared to other service providers

4. MyCorporation

Best Trademark Services in California

With over 20 years of experience in the industry, MyCorporation has assisted thousands of businesses in forming an LLC in California and obtaining trademarks. Their reputation for offering comprehensive trademark services extends throughout the United States, including California. 

MyCorporation’s services include a trademark search that checks federal, state, and common law databases, ensuring your desired trademark is available. They guide clients through trademark registration and handling communication with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). 

Additionally, they offer a trademark watch service that monitors your registered trademark for potential infringements. MyCorporation’s pricing starts from $99 plus government fees for the basic trademark search and registration package, with the trademark watch service available for an additional fee. Known for its excellent customer support, MyCorporation has numerous positive online reviews, reflecting its high customer satisfaction.

  • Basic Plan: $99 plus $70 filing fees
  • Standard Plan: $124 plus $70 filing fees
  • Deluxe Plan: $224 plus $70 filing fees
  • Premium Plan: $324 plus $70 filing fees
Pros
  • Experienced in intellectual property services
  • Offers customized solutions for trademark registration
  • Comprehensive legal resources available
  • Reliable customer support
Cons
  • Pricing is higher compared to other competitors
  • No attorney consultations included in base pricing
  • Limited bundled services for trademark registration

5. Swyft Filings

Best Trademark Services in California

Although Swyft Filings is a relatively new company, they have quickly gained a reputation for offering efficient and affordable trademark services to businesses forming an LLC in California. They conduct a thorough trademark search, ensuring your desired trademark is available for registration, and help clients navigate the trademark registration process. 

Swyft Filings also provides access to professional guidance throughout the registration process. Their pricing starts at $49 plus government fees for their basic package, with additional services available for an extra fee. Swyft Filings boasts excellent customer support via phone, email, and live chat, with numerous positive reviews online highlighting their efficiency and affordability.

Pros
  • Affordable trademark registration services
  • Provides in-house copyright, patent, and trademark services
  • Good online resources for intellectual property
Cons
  • Does not offer legal consultations as part of their services
  • Limited legal advisors to assist with complex trademark issues

6. Trademark Plus

Best Trademark Services in California

Trademark Plus is a well-established company with a solid reputation for providing trademark services to businesses in California and across the United States. Their comprehensive trademark search service ensures your desired trademark’s availability while guiding clients through registration. Trademark Plus offers ongoing trademark monitoring to protect your registered trademark from potential infringement. 

Their competitive pricing starts at $199 plus government fees for their basic package, with additional services available for an extra fee. Trademark Plus is known for its excellent customer support, with representatives available via phone, email, and live chat. They have numerous positive reviews online, highlighting their expertise and commitment to customer satisfaction.

  • Standard Plan: $199 plus $70 filing fees
  • Attorney-led Plan: $399 plus $70 filing fees
Pros
  • Specializes in trademark registration services
  • Competitive pricing
  • Comprehensive trademark databases
  • Experienced team of trademark specialists
Cons
  • No additional business services offered
  • Limited customer support channels
  • No attorney consultations available with basic service packages

7. JPG Legal

Best Trademark Services in California

JPG Legal is a law firm specializing in trademark services for businesses looking to form an LLC in California. They have a solid reputation for providing expert legal advice and guidance throughout the trademark registration process. Their comprehensive trademark search service ensures your desired trademark’s availability and guides clients through registration. JPG Legal offers ongoing trademark monitoring to protect your registered trademark from potential infringement. 

Their competitive pricing starts at $399 plus government fees for their basic package, with additional services available for an extra fee. Known for their excellent customer support, JPG Legal has numerous positive reviews online, reflecting their professionalism, expertise, and commitment to customer satisfaction.

  • Basic Plan: $399 plus $70 filing fees
  • Value Plan: $699 plus $70 filing fees
  • Safe Plan: $999 plus $70 filing fees
Pros
  • Focuses exclusively on trademark law
  • Registered attorneys handle the entire process
  • Provides extensive trademark law resources on their website
  • Offers transparent, flat-fee pricing
Cons
  • Limited range of services outside trademark registration
  • Smaller firm, which could lead to longer processing times for trademark applications
  • No bundled services for additional business formation needs

8. TrademarkCenter

Best Trademark Services in California

TrademarkCenter is a reputable company offering trademark services to businesses in California and the United States. Their comprehensive trademark search service ensures your desired trademark’s availability while guiding clients through registration. TrademarkCenter offers ongoing trademark monitoring to protect your registered trademark from potential infringement. 

Their competitive pricing starts at $300 plus government fees for their basic package, with additional services available for an extra fee. TrademarkCenter is known for its excellent customer support, with representatives available via phone, email, and live chat. They have numerous positive reviews online, highlighting their efficiency, expertise, and commitment to customer satisfaction.

Pros
  • A specialized firm that focuses on trademark registrations
  • Offers free trademark search prior to registration
  • Provides additional services such as domain name registration
  • Simple and easy-to-use online platform
Cons
  • Limited additional legal and business services
  • No bundled options for discounted pricing
  • Limited customer reviews available, making it difficult to judge their reputation

FAQs

What is the best trademark service in California?
There are many good trademark services in California, but the best would depend on your specific needs and budget.
How much does it cost to register a trademark in California?
The cost to register a trademark in California depends on several factors, including the type of trademark and the level of legal assistance required. Generally, fees start at about $225 plus legal fees.
What is the difference between a federal trademark and a California state trademark?
A federal trademark provides nationwide protection, while a California state trademark provides protection only within the state.
Can I use a California state trademark outside of California?
No, a California state trademark provides protection only within the state. If you want nationwide protection, you should register a federal trademark.
How long does it take to get a trademark registered in California?
The processing time for a California state trademark can vary, but it usually takes about six months to a year to get your trademark registered.
Can I trademark a name and logo together in California?
Yes, you can register a combination name and logo trademark with the California Secretary of State.
How long does a California state trademark last?
A California state trademark lasts for ten years from the date of registration and can be renewed for additional ten-year periods.
Can I renew my California state trademark before it expires?
Yes, you can renew your California state trademark up to six months before it expires.
Is it necessary to hire a lawyer to file for a California state trademark?
While it is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified trademark attorney to help you with the process.
What is a trademark search, and do I need one before filing for a California state trademark?
A trademark search is a process of checking if someone is already using a similar trademark. A trademark search can reduce the risk of conflicts with other trademark owners and is recommended before filing any trademark application.
What is a trademark class?
A trademark class is a category or grouping of products or services that helps trademark offices organize trademark applications and registrations.
What is a disclaimer, and do I need to include one in my California state trademark application?
A disclaimer is a statement that identifies a term or portion of a trademark that is not being claimed as an exclusive right. It can be required by the California Secretary of State if the trademark includes terms or design elements that are commonly used in your industry.
What is a cease and desist letter, and what should I do if I receive one related to my California state trademark?
A cease and desist letter is a legal document requesting you to stop using a trademark that infringes on someone else’s trademark rights. You should seek the advice of a qualified trademark attorney to discuss your options and respond appropriately.
What happens if I don’t renew my California state trademark on time?
If you don’t renew your California state trademark on time, it can become abandoned, and you may lose your rights.
Can I file a California state trademark application online?
Yes, the California Secretary of State’s office offers an online trademark filing system.
Who can file a California state trademark application?
Anyone who uses or intends to use a trademark in California may apply for a California state trademark registration.
Can I file for a California state trademark without a mailing address in California?
Yes, you can use a registered agent service as your California legal address to file for a California state trademark.
What is the difference between a trademark and a service mark?
A trademark is used to identify products or goods, while a service mark is used to identify services.
Can I transfer ownership of my California state trademark to another person or business?
Yes, you can sell or transfer ownership of your California state trademark registration.
How do I change information or update my California state trademark registration?
You can file a request to amend your California state trademark registration with the California Secretary of State.
What types of trademarks can be registered in California?
The California Secretary of State can register trademarks that fit the criteria of a trademark under California law, including a name, logo, slogan, color, and sound marks.
Can I register a famous celebrity’s name for my business or product?
No, you cannot register a celebrity’s name or likeness without their consent as it could lead to a right of publicity claim.
Can I trademark a name based on my geographic location in California?
Yes, you can trademark a name based on your geographic location in California if it meets the criteria of a trademark and does not infringe on other trademarks.
Can I search trademarks online in California?
Yes, you can search for trademarks registered in California online.
How can I enforce my California state trademark rights?
You can enforce your California state trademark rights by filing a lawsuit in California or seeking mediation or arbitration.
Can I lose my California state trademark rights?
Yes, you can lose your California state trademark rights if someone else begins using a similar trademark ahead of you or if you fail to use the trademark for an extended period.
Can I use my California state trademark in another state?
Yes, but you may need to register it as a trademark or service mark in that state to receive protection similar to what a California state trademark provides within California.
How can I determine if someone is infringing on my California state trademark?
Conducting a search in trade publications, internet search engines, and consulting with a trademark attorney can help determine if someone is infringing on your California state trademark.
What are the best trademark services available in California?
Some of the best trademark services available in California include LegalZoom, Trademarkia, and Rocket Lawyer.
Does a business need to register their trademark in California?
No, businesses do not need to separately register their trademark in California. However, registering with the USPTO provides nationwide protection including in California.
How do I conduct a trademark search in California?
You can conduct a trademark search on the United States Patent and Trademark Office website to check for existing or pending trademarks in California.
Can I file my trademark application in California?
The trademark application can be filed online through the USPTO’s Trademark Electronic Application System, regardless of where the applicant is located.
Are there any California-specific requirements for a trademark application?
No, there are no California-specific requirements for a trademark application. The application must comply with the federal requirements of the USPTO.
How long does it take to register a trademark in California?
It takes around 6-12 months to obtain a trademark registration if there are no issues or objections during the registration process
Do I need a California-based attorney to register my trademark in California?
You do not necessarily need a California-based attorney to register your trademark in California. You can use an attorney from anywhere in the United States.
How can I find a qualified trademark attorney in California?
You can find a qualified trademark attorney in California by looking up state bar attorney referral services, online directories or by asking other businesses for referrals.
Can I file a dispute over a trademark infringement in California?
Yes, disputes over trademark infringement can be filed in California state court or federal court, depending on the circumstances of the case.
Can I file a trademark infringement case in a California state court if the infringing company is from out of state?
Yes, you can file a trademark infringement case in California state court against an out-of-state company under certain circumstances, such as the defendant selling products within California.
Can I file a trademark infringement case in federal court in California?
Yes, a trademark infringement case can be filed in federal court in California as long as there is jurisdiction in the federal courts for the case to be properly heard.
How long do I have to file a lawsuit for trademark infringement in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for a trademark infringement lawsuit is three years from the date that the plaintiff becomes aware of the infringement.
Can a California business use a trademark without registering it first?
Yes, a business may use and maintain the rights to a trademark without registering it federally. However, there are legal benefits to registering the trademark, such as nationwide protection.
Can a business owning a trademark sue someone for using a similar trademark in California?
Yes, a business owning a trademark can sue someone for using a similar trademark in California, known as trademark infringement, if the use of the similarity creates confusion in the consumer’s mind.
Can a copyright be used in place of a trademark in California?
No, a copyright cannot be used in place of a trademark in California or any other state. Copyright focuses specifically on protecting works like books, movies, and music.
Does a trademark registered in California automatically get registered in other states?
No, a trademark registered in California does not automatically get registered in other states. However, registering nationally with the USPTO provides protection in all 50 states.
What is the difference between registering a trademark and trademark licensing in California?
Registering a trademark allows an individual or business to legally claim exclusive rights and use of a particular brand, while licensing allows individuals or businesses to use specific elements of the trademark for a fee.
Can a California business have more than one trademark?
Yes, a California business can have more than one trademark. Each trademark covers a specific aspect or category of products or services.
Is it necessary to have a lawyer to register a trademark in California?
No, it is not necessary to have a lawyer to register a trademark in California. However, an attorney can help ensure that the application is completed accurately.
Does the USPTO have an office in California?
No, the USPTO does not have a physical office in California. However, it is possible to handle trademark issues through the USPTO’s online system.
Are there any fees to file a trademark opposition in California?
Yes, there are fees for filing a trademark opposition with the USPTO. The cost is $400 to file a notice of opposition and $600 to file a petition for cancellation.
Can a California business challenge an objection or denial of their trademark application?
Yes, a California business can challenge an objection or denial of their trademark application by filing an appeal with the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board.
Can a California business abandon their trademark registration voluntarily?
Yes, a California business can voluntarily abandon their trademark registration if it is no longer servicing the purpose for which it intended.
Can a California business transfer its ownership of a trademark?
Yes, a California business can transfer the ownership of its trademark via a trademark assignment agreement, which allows the owner to transfer the rights of the trademark to another party.
How do I renew my trademark in California?
To renew a trademark, the owner has to file a maintenance document on time with the USPTO and according to the filing deadline.
Which Calfornia based law firm is known for trademark dispute resolution?
Many law firms in California provide expertise in trademark dispute resolution. Examples include Orrick Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP and Covington & Burling LLP.
What is a Madrid Protocol Application for a Trademark registration?
A Madrid Protocol Application is a cost-effective and efficient way for a trademark applicant, looking to secure trademark registration in various countries in a single application.
Does a Trademark registration grant patent or copyright protections in California?
A trademark registration does not grant patent or copyright protection in California, or any other location.

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Conclusion

California has several top LLC trademark services, each offering various features, pricing, and customer support. To make the right choice for your California LLC, consider your specific needs, budget, and reputation of the company. Conduct thorough research and read customer reviews to ensure you make the best decision for your business in The Golden State. Visit LLCBase for more information about your California LLC.

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