A business name (formed with an LLC) is not the same as a brand name (protected via trademarks).

Trademark registration protects the names and identifiers your customers associate with your business. Forming an LLC does not protect your brand name or prevent others from using a similar name.

Many founders form an LLC first and address trademark protection as they develop their brand.

There’s no single right time. Some businesses seek protection before launch, while others do so after they’ve begun operating or when preparing for expansion, partnerships, or investment. Timing is a strategic decision based on risk, goals, and resources.

Yes. Many clients come to us after they’ve already started using a name or brand. In those cases, we evaluate whether protection is available and what steps make sense moving forward.

Trademarks protect parts of your business like brand and product names, logos, slogans, and hashtags. Copyrights protect original artistic or literary works such as photos, tv/movie scripts, books, and songs.

A trademark search helps identify potential risks and conflicts before filing. A trademark application is the formal request for registration. Conducting a search first allows for more informed, strategic decisions.

The consultation is a focused conversation about your business, goals, and concerns. We’ll discuss your current situation, identify potential risks or opportunities, and outline possible next steps. It’s designed to provide clarity, not pressure.

As early as possible. Early legal guidance can help clarify ownership, expectations, and long-term implications—often preventing issues that are harder to unwind later. A lawyer can also explain key contract terms before signing.

After a consultation, we recommend a defined scope of work with flat-fee pricing. This approach provides transparency and allows you to move forward without uncertainty around billing.