Hello. I'm currently at the end of the development of a software product. And it's the time to start searching for a product name. I've got some ideas but because it's my first product i'm not sure about the legal aspects in choosing a name. How to find out if the name I intend to use is not a trade mark or something. What about if I decide to name it "MyCompanyName" "MyProductName", and "MyProductName" is protected by law (copyrighted)?

Quote: Original post by vladic2000x
How to find out if the name I intend to use is not a trade mark or something. What about if I decide to name it "MyCompanyName" "MyProductName", and "MyProductName" is protected by law (copyrighted)?

There are companies that will do a name registration search for a fee. Ask your lawyer.

You have a lawyer, don't you? You wouldn't plan on releasing a product into the marketplace without consulting with a lawyer, would you?

Your own preliminary search should include:

* Trademark offices of any nations you intend to do regular business within
* Trademark offices of at least your local state, if applicable
* Search for the name in every major search engine

Once you have your preliminary search done, discuss it with your lawyer who may suggest more extensive searches, or may suggest that your name is sufficiently distinctive.

Quote: Original post by vladic2000x
Hello. I'm currently at the end of the development of a software product. And it's the time to start searching for a product name. I've got some ideas but because it's my first product i'm not sure about the legal aspects in choosing a name. How to find out if the name I intend to use is not a trade mark or something. What about if I decide to name it "MyCompanyName" "MyProductName", and "MyProductName" is protected by law (copyrighted)?

Vlad, it wouldn't be copyrighted, but it might be trademarked. Nolo Press has a great book on copyright, trademark, and patents. You should read it.
Choosing a product name is pretty much the same as choosing a company name or a website domain name. Nolo Press has a great book on that, called Domain Names: How To Choose & Protect A Great Name For Your Website." Highly recommended.