Similar name, different business?

Asked over 1 year ago - Los Angeles, CA

I am starting a company and I want a similar name as another company in town . Only a couple letters are different . The business services are entirely different . Is this OK ?

Attorney answers (4)

  1. David William Leonard

    Contributor Level 8


    Lawyers agree

    Answered . If the similarity is causing consumer confusion between the two companies, and the other company can show that the confusion is costing them business, you could have a problem. Why go there if you don't have to?

    This is general information and not meant as specific legal advice for any particular situation.
  2. Michael Charles Doland

    Contributor Level 20


    Lawyers agree

    Answered . Legally it "may" be OK but it's not a good idea, commercially or legally. While your investment is low, seek originality so you are not always having to justify a "technicality" in the future.

  3. Clayton Harold Walker Jr.


    Contributor Level 13


    Lawyers agree

    Answered . It doesn't sound like the best of plans. A few characters off can be deceptively similar even if the business is different. However, the factual specifics are important in evaluating your prospects and you've withheld them. You've also not suggested that you've considered the state wide aspects of issue. You should see an attorney to get a better answer

    If you find an answer helpful please mark it as such or as the Best Answer. You have asked us to state an opinion... more
  4. Kalpana Nagampalli


    Contributor Level 7

    Answered . The senior user of a mark can oppose an application even if the business services are entirely different. The Trademark office will look to see if the earlier users mark is strong and the customer perception of the senior mark. If you are offering services in the same town and the marks are are the same/similar in appearance, pronunciation, connotation and commercial impression it could be confusing to customers.

    I agree with other answers here that if you intent to go down this path, it is worth consulting a lawyer.

Can't find what you're looking for? Ask a Lawyer

Get free answers from experienced attorneys.


Ask now

26,935 answers this week

2,811 attorneys answering

Ask a Lawyer

Get answers from top-rated lawyers.

  • It's FREE
  • It's easy
  • It's anonymous

26,935 answers this week

2,811 attorneys answering