Patent and Trademark Resource Center: U.S. Trademarks

Trademark Search Tools

• Using the Trademark Electronic Search System (TESS)
  Good overview of how to get started using TESS
• TESS (Trademark Electronic Search System)
  Search the USPTO's database of registered trademarks and prior pending applications
• Advice on what makes a Strong Trademark, from the USPTO
  Be Fanciful, Suggestive and Arbitrary! Not Generic or Descriptive!
• Information about Classification Codes and Design Codes
  Both of those are important for a detailed Trademark Search, and this link tells you what they are.
• TESS Search Strategies and Techniques, from the USPTO
• Trademark Design Code Search
  Use this to identify design codes for logo designs. It is the only way to search for non-textual graphical elements commonly found in trademarks. Essential when searching for marks that do not include text.
• International Classification of Goods and Services
  Use this list to identify the International Classification of Goods and Services codes based upon the goods or services on which a mark is used. Useful for both searching marks and registering marks. You can also search the Classification List Here.
• List of Coordinated Classes
  When doing a search on your proposed trademark idea, it's important to not just search the classification code directly related to your business. You should also search the "coordinated classes". For instance, Class 25 (Clothing) is considered "coordinated" with Class 14 (Jewelry). Your trademark search should cover both of those classes to make sure there is no likelihood of confusion.
• Corporate Name Search
  Unfortunately, Maine does not have a searchable trademark database. Registered Maine trademarks can be found in the Corporate Name Search Database if the registrant's name (or a part of its name) is known. Remember, registration is optional; not all trademarks belonging to Maine companies will be found in the database.
• Seven-step Trademark Search strategy, from the USPTO

Trademark Rules and Procedures.

• Maine Marks Information - This information outlines the options available for registering a mark with the State of Maine's Secretary of State.
• Trademark Assistance Center - is the main support center for all customers, from first-time filers to legal professionals and experienced trademark applicants. They can answer your questions on a variety of trademark topics.
• Protecting Your Trademark: Enhancing Your Rights Through Federal Registration 
• Guide to the International Registration of Marks under the Madrid Agreement and the Madrid Protocol
  This Guide is primarily intended for applicants for, and holders of, international registrations of marks, as well as officials of the competent administrations of the member States of the Madrid Union.