Trade Marks and Copyright 2026

USA – GEORGIA Trends and Developments Contributed by: Andrew Crain, Todd Deveau and Lani Burt, Thomas Horstemeyer LLP

Copyright and Trade Mark Strategies To effectively protect intellectual property rights in copyright and trade mark, entities should ensure proper registration and vigilant monitoring. Register - ing creative works with the United States Copyright Office and trade marks with the United States Patent and Trademark Office strengthens enforcement rights and remedies. For trade mark protection, selecting distinctive and memorable marks is crucial. These marks should clearly be used on or in connection with the entity’s goods or services, ensuring easy consumer associa - tion. While trade marks can be filed at both state and federal levels, entities aiming for national or global reach should pursue federal registration, as state trade marks offer limited protection. Entities must actively monitor the marketplace for trade mark use and copyright distribution to address infringement promptly. Additionally, contracts and licensing agreements are essential for defining own - ership, and how works and trade marks can be used in collaborations or commercial deals.

Looking Ahead Georgia’s creative industries face exciting opportuni - ties and evolving challenges when it comes to intel - lectual property. Not only will the growth of stream - ing and digital distribution impact the production and creativity for Georgia’s film and music industries, so will the increase in AI usage. The state’s continued focus on intellectual property awareness and support will be key to sustaining its competitive edge.

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