Are There Differences Between Deceptive Trademarks And Deceptively Misdescriptive Marks?
Yes, there are differences between deceptive trademarks and deceptively misdescriptive marks.
A deceptive trademark is a trademark that misleads consumers as to the nature, characteristics, qualities, or geographic origin of the goods or services being offered. A deceptive trademark is not eligible for trademark protection and cannot be registered with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
A deceptively misdescriptive mark is a trademark that is misdescriptive of the goods or services being offered, but is not necessarily deceptive as to the nature, characteristics, qualities, or geographic origin of the goods or services. A deceptively misdescriptive mark may be eligible for trademark protection, but only if it has acquired secondary meaning, which is a legal term that refers to the public's recognition of the mark as an indicator of the source of the goods or services.
It is important to choose a trademark that is not deceptive or deceptively misdescriptive in order to avoid any potential legal issues and to ensure that the trademark meets the necessary requirements for trademark protection. It is a good idea to consult with a trademark attorney or other professional to assess the potential risks associated with your trademark and to determine the appropriate steps to take to protect your trademark rights.