Trade names can be protected under state law if they are distinctive and not confusingly similar to existing trade names. North Carolina law allows individuals, firms, partnerships, corporations, associations, unions and other organizations to hold trademarks and service marks.Where do I go if I want to register a patent? Estimated Trademark Costs. Best Lawyers provides a trusted directory of top Patent legal professionals in North Carolina, United States. A trial and patent lawyer, Kelsey Nix advises companies on patent, trade secret, copyright and trademark disputes. Sidney Persley focuses his practice in the life sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and chemical areas. He advises clients on patent portfolio development. To obtain federal registration for a mark in the United States, the mark's use in commerce must be lawful under federal law. We are your established legal network with offices in Asheville, Greenville, New Bern, Raleigh, and Wilmington, NC. Related Articles.