how to trademark

[thebookmaker]

hi,

i've been reading some posts about legal issues that could arise as a result of cybersquatting TM names. I recently found a domain that I think could be profitable, so I checked the uspto and didn't find a record.

My question is: What are the TM guidelines? Is it possible for me to TM the name, so I don't get slapped with a lawsuit in the future?

By the way, the TM is not a company, it's merely a nickname. Anyone can TM a nickname right?

Thanks for all the help,
Ej

[DNQuest.com]

a TM is aquired through its usage in commerce. You do not need to register a TM to have protection. But registering your TM will help you in hte long run. But there is no magic applicaiton you fill out and have instant TM status. You must use it in commerce in some way.

Did you google the name and see what results pop up? if so, did anythig come up that may be used in commerce in some way?