Legal Definitions - United States Patent and Trademark Office

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) is a government agency that is responsible for examining patent and trademark applications, issuing patents, registering trademarks, and providing information and services related to patents and trademarks to the public. The USPTO is a part of the Department of Commerce.

For example, if someone invents a new product, they can apply for a patent with the USPTO. If the USPTO approves the patent application, the inventor will have exclusive rights to make, use, and sell the product for a certain period of time. Similarly, if someone creates a new logo or brand name, they can apply for a trademark with the USPTO. If the USPTO approves the trademark application, the owner will have exclusive rights to use the logo or brand name in connection with their products or services.

The USPTO plays an important role in protecting intellectual property rights and promoting innovation and creativity in the United States.