The cost to trademark a name or logo is $250 or $350 per class of goods and services if you file the application yourself. Hiring a trademark attorney to assist you with the trademark registration process costs $750 to $2,400 per class on average, including the filing fees. Using a trademark service instead of hiring an attorney costs $300 to $750 per class, including the government filing fees.

The United States Patent Office (USPTO) offers two filing options--TEAS Plus and TEAS Standard. TEAS Plus is cheaper at $250 per class but requires all documentation up front. The TEAS Standard costs $350 per class but allows you to submit some of the documentation later.

The total cost to trademark a name or logo depends on the type of application you choose and the number of classes of goods or services you select.

• A trademark protects a name phrase, design, or symbol that identifies a company or brand. Some examples include a company logo, slogan, or brand name.
• A Copyright protects original artistic, literary, or musical work. Common law protects these works automatically, but it's easier to enforce when the work is registered with the U.S. Copyright Office.

Registering a federal trademark takes 12 to 18 months on average, depending on your filing basis. The review process alone, once you submit your application, is typically about 4 to 6 months. The USPTO publishes estimated timelines for each filing basis and their current trademark processing wait times on their website.

Processing time for a state trademark varies by state, but they are usually much quicker than federal trademark registration. Many states also offer expedited processing for an extra fee.

A federal trademark can last indefinitely provided you continue to use it and follow the required maintenance and fee schedule. The initial trademark registration lasts 5 years before the first maintenance documentation is due. You'll need to submit a renewal application, along with other documentation showing your use of the trademark, between the 9th and 10th year, and then every 10 years after that.

Registering a trademark is a complicated process with a lot of very specific requirements. Follow these guidelines to help you choose a trademark attorney with the experience and expertise you need:

• Check out their reviews on Thervo and Google.
• Hire a lawyer who specializes in trademarks.
• Verify their credentials and state licensing information.
• Confirm their office location is nearby or convenient for you.
• Ask up front about their costs and fee structure.
• Discuss your needs with them before hiring to make sure your personalities are a good fit.
• Review all contract terms before signing.

Consider asking these questions to help you choose a trademark attorney:

• How long have you been a trademark attorney?
• What is your license number?
• Is your entire practice devoted to trademark services?
• What potential issues do you see with my application?
• What is the best way to reach you?
• Where is your office located?
• What is included in your trademark service fee?
• What other services do you offer?
• Who will be working on my application?
• What happens if my trademark application is not approved?
• Do you offer ongoing assistance to keep my trademark active?