Stars and Stripes forever? Not always in registered trademarks

Americans love to proudly show off their red, white and blue. Businesses, too, love to adopt the flag for logos and marketing, but there are limits to what they can do with that symbol.

U.S. law is clear that any trademark which “consists of or compromises” the American flag or any other state, municipality or foreign nation shall be refused registration.

There are distinctions in how flags can be used, as outlined by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Understanding them is important for businesses who want to display their patriotism – and trademark protection, too.

Learn more here.

– Michael G. Monyok, Meyer, Unkovic & Scott, MGM@MUSLAW.COM