Message Review Timing

To keep our community safe and guard against accidental posts or spam, all messages are manually moderated. Whenever possible, messages will be approved or rejected the same day they’re sent. We generally do not moderate or send messages in the evenings or on weekends.

Message Approval Criteria

Effective content generally includes questions, insights, or resources that are likely to benefit the broader trademark professional community. Posts should invite thoughtful discussion or provide helpful information, rather than promote individual services or focus on specific clients or cases. Messages that are client-focused, solicitous, or intended solely for one specific person are not appropriate for the TMPE. Replies that address an individual by name but provide information useful to the full group are acceptable and encouraged. If a message is deemed inappropriate for the Exchange, you will typically receive a rejection email with an explanation. If you attempt to send a message that is rude, discriminatory, harassing, or thoroughly inappropriate, you may be removed or permanently banned from the group.

Personal Messages and Introductions

If your message is intended for a specific person, please send it directly to that individual. For example: “Thanks, Kara!” should be sent to Kara, not to the Exchange. To avoid bombarding the group, we also will not approve general introductions. Feel free to provide any necessary context in your post, however. For example: “I’m a trademark attorney in Belgium, and I’m curious about the domicile requirement in the United States.”

Political Discussions

To maintain a civil and cooperative environment, please refrain from political discussions in TMPE. Discussions of legislation or policy changes directly affecting trademarks are allowed, but please avoid broader political commentary.

Subject Line Etiquette

Use clear and specific subject lines to indicate the topic of your message. Do not change the subject line when replying about the same topic. If you’re changing the topic or responding to something unrelated to the subject line, update it to reflect the new topic. For example: If the original subject line is “Specimen requirements for color marks” and your reply shifts to filing strategy generally, update the subject line to match the new topic.

Promotional Content

Solicitation and general promotion are not permitted. If another member asks for professionals in your region or with your specific expertise, you are welcome to respond—either to that individual or the group—to offer your services. Please keep such responses brief and refrain from sending a sales pitch. You may post once about an event that’s relevant for our audience of trademark professionals. Events aimed at the general public or clients will not be approved.

Confidentiality

Please do not share confidential or privileged information or details that could identify clients or sensitive matters. Posts should adhere to professional confidentiality standards and avoid sharing client-identifying details.

Accidental Disclosures

If you accidentally send unintended information to the group, email us immediately.

Moderation Decisions

Moderation decisions are final. If you believe a decision was made in error, you may contact the moderators for clarification.