As a business owner, entrepreneur, or creative professional, your brand is one of your most valuable assets. Whether you’re launching a new product, growing your e-commerce presence, or just starting your business journey, your trademarks deserve protection. That’s where the guidance of an experienced attorney becomes crucial.
If you’re searching for a “trademark lawyer near me,” you’re already taking a proactive step toward safeguarding your intellectual property. Now, let’s help you take the next one: finding the right trademark lawyer for your needs.
At Jones Intellectual Property, we’ve had the privilege of representing clients from startups to Fortune 500 companies. Whether you’re filing your first application or facing a complex infringement issue, here’s how to find the legal ally your brand deserves.
1. Search by Experience and Credentials
Not all attorneys are created equal, especially when it comes to intellectual property. It’s essential to work with a top-rated trademark lawyer who has experience specifically with trademark law, not just general business or litigation matters.
Look for an attorney who:
- Focuses primarily on intellectual property law;
- Has a solid track record with the USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office); and
- Understands how to handle refusals, Office Actions, oppositions, and infringement disputes.
The main federal trademark law, known as the Lanham Act, is complex, and interpretations of it by the courts and USPTO are ever-evolving. You need someone who works with it daily. Attorneys with strong reviews, recognitions from platforms like Super Lawyers or Martindale-Hubbell, and detailed client testimonials are often the most dependable.
At Jones IP Law, our advocates are laser-focused on intellectual property law. Our team has handled filings and enforcement actions for everything from mobile apps to nationwide apparel brands. That deep, specialized knowledge matters, and it helps protect your business in the long run.
2. Ask for Referrals from Local Business Owners
Don’t underestimate the value of a personal recommendation. Whether you’re putting in hours at a coworking space in Brooklyn or networking at a startup incubator in NYC, ask other business owners where they’ve gotten help for their trademark needs.
Referrals are particularly helpful because they come with real-world context. You can ask about an attorney’s communication style, pricing, responsiveness, and whether the overall process felt efficient or frustrating.
You’re likely to uncover local attorneys who understand both the national scope of trademark law and the competitive local business environment. That’s critical, especially if your brand is gaining traction in the New York market or you’re preparing to expand nationwide.
3. Use Legal Directories and Online Searches
Typing “trademark lawyer near me” into Google is a solid start, but refine your search using trusted legal directories. These platforms often include verified credentials, bar admission status, and client reviews, all of which are helpful for narrowing your options.
Recommended platforms include:
- Avvo—showcases attorney ratings, client reviews, and peer endorsements;
- Martindale-Hubbell—provides peer-reviewed ratings for legal ability and ethical standards;
- Super Lawyers—features attorneys who have been nominated and vetted through a rigorous process; and
- New York State Bar Association—offers a lawyer referral service and disciplinary history.
Once you’ve identified a few promising names, visit their websites. Look for proof of trademark-specific experience, case studies, blog content, and testimonials from clients in your industry. A well-rounded online presence can signal professionalism and transparency, qualities you want in your legal partner.
4. Evaluate Communication and Client Service
If you’re wondering how to choose a trademark lawyer, consider this: Your attorney doesn’t just fill out forms. They help build a legal foundation for your brand. That means communication is everything.
When you meet with a potential attorney (either virtually or in person), assess:
- How clearly they explain the trademark process,
- Whether they offer strategic insights tailored to your industry, and
- How promptly they respond to questions or concerns.
A high-quality trademark attorney will walk you through:
- Comprehensive trademark searches to identify conflicts;
- Proper classification of goods and services; and
- Strategic brand protection plans, including how to monitor for infringement.
This is about more than paperwork. It’s about forming a relationship with someone who will help you protect your brand today and enforce your rights tomorrow.
At Jones Intellectual Property, we’re committed to being accessible, transparent, and proactive. Our goal is to help you feel confident, not confused, throughout the trademarking process.
5. Consider Industry Experience and Case Results
Trademark law is not one-size-fits-all. The needs of a fashion designer differ greatly from those of a software developer or a food brand. That’s why it’s essential to choose an attorney who understands your business niche and the typical IP challenges it faces.
For example, a firm with experience helping fashion clients may know how to protect unique logos, packaging, and slogans, while one focused on SaaS might help register software brand names and manage digital infringement.
To determine if an attorney is a good fit, ask questions like:
- Have you worked with businesses like mine?
- Can you share examples of successful registrations or enforcement cases in my industry?
The answers will help you gauge whether the attorney is prepared to protect your brand with precision and foresight.
6. Choose a Local IP Law Firm That Understands Your Market
Finally, location still matters, even in a digital world. A Brooklyn-based law firm like Jones Intellectual Property offers something few national firms can: a deep understanding of the local market combined with global IP expertise.
Michael Jones has helped clients across various industries register trademarks, defend their brands, and navigate complex disputes. Jones IP Law firm brings a tailored, hands-on approach that large, out-of-state firms often can’t match.
Plus, the ability to meet in person to discuss your strategy, when needed, can make all the difference. That kind of personal service builds trust and ensures that nothing falls through the cracks.
You Deserve a Legal Partner Who Protects What You’ve Built
Searching for a trademark lawyer is more than just ticking off a box. It’s about finding someone you can trust with your ideas, your brand, and your business future. The wrong attorney could delay your application or fail to catch a costly legal risk. The right attorney? They could become a trusted partner in your brand’s growth.
Jones Intellectual Property is proud to serve clients throughout Brooklyn, New York, and across the U.S. With a decade of experience protecting trademarks for startups and Fortune 500 companies alike, we’re ready to help you protect what matters most. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation to learn more.
