Trademark University®

The Trademark University® was created by trademark attorney Josh Gerben to provide a wide range of detailed videos and information specific to all things trademark. Information is provided to help the general public and current clientele understand the in’s and out’s of the trademark registration process.

Please note that all information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. You should seek the counsel of a trademark attorney to assist you with any legal questions that are specific to your matter.

Gerben IP’s Trademark Glossary

As you delve into the world of trademarks, you might encounter technical legal jargon and unfamiliar terminology. To help you understand any unfamiliar vocabulary, Gerben IP has curated a glossary of 100 trademark terms.

In our trademark glossary, you will find clear and concise definitions, along with helpful links, designed to demystify the intricacies of trademark law.

Regardless of how much familiarity you have with trademarks, this comprehensive resource will be your key to unlocking a deeper understanding of trademark concepts. So, explore, learn, and empower yourself with the knowledge you need to protect and leverage your brand effectively.

Lesson 1: What is a trademark?

In this lesson you will learn what a trademark can be, as well as what a trademark is not. Watch the video or read the article.

Lesson 2: Trademark Symbols ®, ™, ℠ – Which one can you use?

There are three trademark symbols that can be used in conjunction with your brand. Determine when and how you can use each trademark symbol by watching the video or reading the article.

Lesson 3: Trademark Protection – how a federal trademark registration protects your brand.

Protection is often the motivation behind applying for a federal trademark registration but what does this look like in practice? This lesson illustrates three ways that registering a trademark protects your brand – watch the video or read the article.

Lesson 1: An overview of the trademark registration process.

This lesson walks you through the months long process of federally registering a trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office. Watch the video or read the article to learn about each step in the trademark registration process.

Lesson 2: Should I register a trademark? Practical and legal reasons to register a trademark.

There are two major reasons to federally register a trademark in the United States, one is practical and the other is legal. Watch the video or read the article find out more.

Lesson 3: U.S. trademark registration for foreign companies and individuals.

Did you know that foreign entities have to satisfy different requirements in order to register a trademark in the United States? Watch the video or read the article to find out how trademark registration differs for foreign companies and individuals.

Lesson 1: Should I hire a trademark attorney?

Did you know that working with a trademark attorney can greatly increase the chances of your trademark’s approval? Watch the video or read the article to learn why you might want to hire a trademark attorney.

Lesson 2: Why you should hire a trademark attorney for a trademark search.

This lesson demonstrates the benefits of hiring an attorney to clear your trademark through a trademark search. Watch the video or read the article.

Lesson 3: How much does it cost to register a trademark?

How much does it cost to federally register a trademark with the USPTO? Watch the video or read the article for a detailed breakdown.

Lesson 4: How our trademark services work.

Trademark attorney Josh Gerben explains how Gerben IP’s trademark services function. Watch the video or read the article.


Lesson 1: An explanation of the trademark application process.

This lesson walks you through the process of applying for a federal trademark registration with the USPTO. Watch the video or read the article.

Lesson 2: Trademark Filing – can I file my name and logo in the same application?

When you’re ready to protect your brand with a trademark registration, it is recommended that you file your name and logo in separate applications. Watch the video or read the article to find out why.

Lesson 3: An explanation of the trademark filing classes.

Trademark rights are based upon the goods and services offered. This lesson explains how to select the proper filing classes on your trademark application – watch the video or read the article.

Lesson 4: What is an Office Action?

When applying for a federal trademark application, you will likely receive an Office Action. Watch the video or read the article to find out what exactly an Office Action is, as well as some general tips for responding to one.

Lesson 5: After your trademark is registered.

Once your trademark has been federally registered, it is now your responsibility as a trademark owner to protect and utilize your trademark. Watch the video or read the article to learn how to be a responsible trademark owner.

Lesson 1: Principal vs. Supplemental Register

There are two different trademark registers, the principal and the supplemental. To learn about the differences between the two registers, watch the video or read the article.

Lesson 2: Use in Commerce

In the United States, trademark rights are based upon use. Watch the video or read the article to learn what “use in commerce” means in relation to a trademark application.

Do you need assistance with a trademark matter?

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