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U.S. Patent and Trademark Office

Many government-run websites are dull, confusing, and ill-designed. That's not the case with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office site. The site is not flashy or equipped with the latest Shockwave animation or streaming audio, but it is functional and informative. There are extensive sections for both patents and trademarks, and the information is useful to intellectual property practioners and non-lawyers alike. So if you have an invention, or a possible trademark, the PTO website allows you to search the agency's database to determine if someone else has beat you to it. Trademark applications can now be filed and monitered online, which saves time and trouble. The site also offers downloadable forms, publications, and tons of general information to help you decide what rights you may have. There is even a Kids' Page, which would be a useful resource to teachers.

Mon, 22 Nov 1999 14:33:53 -0800