Legal Question in Business Law in California

Similar Business Name

I am opening a new business and wonder if the name I have choosen is too similiar to an existing business, in a neighboring county; i.e., St. City Electric and Mount St. City Electric. I am looking to avoid any problems with choosing my business name.


Asked on 4/17/03, 3:50 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Bryan Whipple Bryan R. R. Whipple, Attorney at Law

Re: Similar Business Name

The main criterion is the likelihood of confusion, but this has many technical ramifications. One thing you didn't mention is the similarity of the businesses and their product lines, which is a major factor in estimating whether the public is likely to be confused.

Based on the limited information given, I think the probability of confusion may be pretty high and therefore this name choice may present problems.

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Answered on 4/17/03, 4:18 am
Rinky Parwani Porter Simon, PC

Re: Similar Business Name

It is hard to tell with the facts you have presented. Is the other business' name a fictious business name, a corporate name or a registered trademark? Are you contemplating a fictitious business name, a corporate name or a registered trademark? What does the other business sell or market? What are you planning to sell or market?

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Answered on 4/17/03, 11:38 am


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