What do you need to do to search for prior art before applying. This page provides information on the types of patents and types of patent applications, and the examination process.Trademarks, patents, and copyrights are different types of intellectual property. The USPTO grants patents and registers trademarks. You do not need an LLC or any entity to register a trademark. You certainly don't need to own XYZ LLC to register the mark XYZ. Property in the form of patent rights, copy- rights, or trade secrets belongs to the creator of the property. Michigan residents have access to a host of unique resources and assistance in their state. The Patent Baron, a well-known service in the intellectual property industry, offers comprehensive guidance on both patents and trademarks. Copyright protects original works of authorship and artistic works in a tangible form.