IP knowledge, clearly written.

Plain-language guides to trademark and copyright law — written by an attorney, for the founders and creators who actually have to make decisions with this information.

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How to Secure Your Brand Before Launch: Intent-to-Use (ITU) Trademarks

You don't have to wait until you're selling to protect your name. A Section 1(b) Intent-to-Use application reserves your trademark at the USPTO and locks in your priority date before your first sale — giving pre-launch brands the same protection as established ones.

The Copyright AI Dilemma: What Counts as Human Authorship?

As generative AI floods the art world, the Copyright Office holds firm: only human-authored works qualify for protection. Where does tool use end and machine creation begin?

Trademark Mar 19, 2026

Trademark ID Manual: Why It Matters

The USPTO's ID Manual isn't just a database — it's the difference between a $350 filing fee and a $550 one. Here's how using pre-approved descriptions saves money and prevents office actions.

Trademark Mar 17, 2026

Trademarks 101: What Is a Trademark?

A trademark is a source identifier — the legal tool that gives you exclusive nationwide rights to your brand name and logo. Here's what every business owner needs to understand before filing.

Copyright 101: What Is Copyright?

Copyright protects original works of authorship the moment they're fixed in a tangible form. Here's a plain-language breakdown of what that legal definition actually means — and why registration still matters.

Who writes the content on this site?

Every post on this site is written by Armani Madison Estriplet, Esq. — the founder and trademark attorney at Madison Trademark Solutions. Nothing is outsourced or AI-drafted. The goal is to give you the same quality of explanation you'd get in a consultation, in a format you can read on your own time.

Is the information on this blog legal advice?

No — the articles here are educational and informational. They're written to help you understand how trademark and copyright law works in general terms. They don't constitute legal advice and don't create an attorney-client relationship. For advice specific to your situation, book a consultation.

How often do you publish new content?

We publish new posts regularly, focused on topics that are actually useful for founders, creators, and small business owners — not content for content's sake. If there's a topic you'd like us to cover, reach out through the contact page and let us know.

I read an article but still have questions — what should I do?

Book a free consultation. The articles are designed to give you a strong foundation, but trademark and copyright questions are almost always fact-specific. Armani can take what you've read and apply it directly to your situation — helping you figure out exactly what to do next and what it will cost.

Do you have an FAQ for trademark and copyright questions specifically?

Yes — the homepage has a detailed FAQ covering the most common trademark and copyright questions, including how long registration takes, what flat-fee pricing includes, the difference between common law and federal rights, and how copyright protection works for AI-assisted work. Head back to the home page and scroll to the FAQ section, or book a consultation for questions specific to your situation.

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