Legal considerations to have in mind when choosing a company name
There are many legal considerations to keep in mind when choosing a company name, so consult with a lawyer before making your final decision.
Your company name is one of your most important brand assets. It’s how customers and clients will remember you, which will be a big part of your marketing efforts. So it’s crucial to choose a name that reflects your business and stands the test of time.
There are many legal considerations to keep in mind when choosing a company name, so consult with a lawyer before making your final decision.
Ensure the Name you Choose is not Already in Use
The first and most essential thing you must do is choose a name for your company as a small business owner. This choice will follow you far into the future and become associated with everything you may want to accomplish as a business. That’s why ensuring your name does not already exist or infringe upon someone else’s rights is vital.
If you choose a name already used by another business or person, you could face legal action for trademark infringement. To avoid this issue, thoroughly research the names you’re considering before making your final decision.
Consider Trademark Law
You may come up with the perfect name, but it may be too similar to another company’s trademarked name. In this situation, you not only risk having the other company challenge your right to use the name, but potential customers can also mistakenly assume that there is an affiliation between the two companies.
Even if you have already started using a name, it is best to do your due diligence and ensure that it isn’t too close to someone else’s registered trademark. The costs associated with renaming or rebranding to avoid legal issues could far outweigh the cost of researching and double-checking available trademarks ahead of time.
Avoid Names That are Too Generic
It’s essential to avoid names that are too generic or descriptive, as these can be hard to protect legally. You need to own a unique and distinct name from other companies. Otherwise, you risk getting into expensive conflicts over trademark rights.
Get Help From a Professional
When choosing a name for your company, getting professional help can make all the difference. A professional can provide invaluable insight into potential legal and branding implications, depending on what kind of business you are running. If you plan to do business internationally, having an expert review your proposed company name is essential because something that may seem innocuous in your native language might have offensive connotations abroad.
