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Make Your TrademarkPLLC

Our Trademark Process

What happens from search through filing

This page explains the attorney-led filing sequence, what is included, and what to expect after filing with the USPTO.
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  • Attorney-led from search through filing
  • Flat-fee structure on standardized services
  • Clear process milestones
  • Post-filing guidance included

Step by Step

The Trademark Process, Step by Step

  1. 01

    Choose your path and submit intake

    Day 1

    Clients can start online for the standardized trademark filing package or request quote-based review for fact-dependent matters.

    At intake, we collect the core details needed to evaluate your filing path and timeline.

    What to expect

    You receive a clear scope and fee structure before filing work proceeds.

  2. 02

    Attorney-led search and strategy review

    Early review window

    An attorney evaluates your proposed mark and search findings, then discusses risks and options with you.

    This is where filing basis, goods/services scope, and potential conflicts are assessed before submission.

    What to expect

    You make a filing decision with legal context, not guesswork.

  3. 03

    Application preparation and USPTO filing

    After strategy confirmation

    Once strategy is confirmed, the attorney prepares and files the application with the USPTO.

    You receive confirmation and next-step expectations for examination and post-filing milestones.

    What to expect

    The filing record is attorney-prepared and aligned with the strategy discussed.

  4. 04

    Monitoring, USPTO review, and next filings

    Post-filing

    The USPTO currently generally conducts first review about 8-16 months after filing.

    If additional filings are required, such as Statement of Use or renewals, we map those deadlines and options.

    What to expect

    You receive guidance through examination, publication, and required next actions.

What is included in the attorney-led process

  • Attorney review of filing strategy before submission
  • Application drafting and filing support
  • Monitoring for USPTO correspondence and status changes
  • Guidance on Office Actions, Statement of Use, and renewal timing
  • Clear communication about what is included vs additional services

After Filing

What happens after your application is filed

Filing starts the USPTO review process. These are the major phases most applicants should expect.

USPTO Examination

First review generally 8-16 months after filing

A USPTO examining attorney reviews the application for conflicts, classification issues, and legal requirements.

Approval or Office Action

After examination

Applications are either approved for publication or receive an Office Action that requires response.

Publication

About 30 days

Approved applications are published for opposition before registration can proceed.

Registration or Notice of Allowance

After publication period

Use-based filings may proceed to registration; intent-to-use filings proceed with post-allowance requirements.

Learn about Office ActionsLearn about Statement of UseLearn about Trademark Renewals

Why it matters

Why attorney-led process decisions matter

Most avoidable trademark problems start before filing: mark selection risk, goods/services scope, and filing-basis decisions.

Attorney-led process review helps reduce preventable errors and improves response quality if USPTO raises concerns.

No attorney can guarantee registration, but qualified legal analysis improves decision quality at each step.

Important filing notes

  • USPTO quick search is informative, but does not guarantee approval.
  • USPTO evaluation remains subjective and fact-dependent.
  • Service and government fees are due regardless of application outcome.
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FAQ

Common questions about the process

How long does the trademark process take?

The USPTO first review timing is generally around 8-16 months after filing. Total timeline depends on examination issues, publication, and whether additional filings are required.

Do I need a search before filing?

Filing without search and attorney review increases risk. Search findings and legal context help you decide whether to file now, adjust scope, or reconsider mark strategy.

What happens if the USPTO issues an Office Action?

An Office Action is a formal USPTO letter identifying issues that require response. Some are procedural; others are substantive and require legal analysis.

When is a Statement of Use required?

If you filed on an intent-to-use basis, a Statement of Use is required after Notice of Allowance to complete registration.