Frequently Asked Questions

Copyrights, trademarks, and patents are all forms of intellectual property. However, each serves a different purpose. Copyrights protect original works of authorship, patents secure inventions, and trademarks protect unique brand identifiers. 

Exploring the differences between copyrights, trademarks, & patents

• Copyrights: This form of IP protects original works of authorship, such as literary works, music, art, film, and software. Think of it as protection for creative expression. For instance, if you write a novel, compose a song, or design a unique website, you automatically own the copyright to that work once it’s created. Let’s say you write a song and upload it to YouTube. Without copyright protection, someone else could take your music, use it in their video, and claim it as their own.

• Patents: Patents protect new, useful, and non-obvious inventions such as processes, machines, and improvements. Essentially, if you invent something innovative, a patent gives you exclusive rights to make, sell, or use that invention for a set period of time—usually 20 years. For example, imagine you develop a solar-powered phone charger that works faster than anything on the market. Without a patent, competitors could quickly replicate your invention and undercut your business. 

• Trademarks: These protect names, logos, slogans, sounds, or colors associated with your business. Think of trademarks as a way to safeguard your brand identity. For example, when you see the golden arches of McDonald's, you immediately recognize it, right? That’s a trademark in action—it builds trust and makes brands instantly recognizable. Whether it’s Nike’s “swoosh” logo or Apple’s iconic apple symbol, trademarks ensure no one else can use something that could confuse customers about your business.