This CLE program provides attorneys with a practical framework for advising clients on trademark selection, protection, and enforcement across the full brand lifecycle, from initial naming through registration and dispute resolution. It reviews key principles of trademark law, including the spectrum of distinctiveness and common pitfalls associated with descriptive or otherwise unprotectable marks. The program also compares common law rights with federal registration, highlighting the strategic advantages of registration for enforcement and brand value.

Attendees will examine frequent clearance and naming mistakes, including overreliance on internet and social media searches, and learn practical approaches to risk assessment and trademark clearance. The course further addresses modern enforcement considerations, including identifying infringement in digital marketplaces and selecting appropriate escalation strategies to protect brand assets.