All professionals will stumble upon the struggle of balancing costs with deductibility. When is the proper time to spend money on your company or product? Will the money spent be beneficial with the return? Branding your company, service, or product is key to obtaining a successful business platform. Sometimes, this process can be costly, but it could potentially cost you more if you choose to ignore it.   Protecting Brand and Trademarks  This week, Kelly brings Kelley Keller, founder and president of the Keller Law Firm which focuses on domestic and intellectual property issues. Kelley discusses the current - and public - trademark dispute that Lady Antebellum faces with Lady A, and what it means for business owners. Discover the importance of having guidance during the trademark process, learn what to expect both financially and emotionally, and the consequences of protecting your brand.   Listen to Kelly and Kelley Keller discuss: Lady Antebellum to Lady A Trademark Conflict What Trademarks are Used for  Trademark Boundaries Steps to Take to Avoid Trademark Conflict Analyzing if your Piece is Distinctive and Financially Important Cost vs. Return Consumer Recognition Marketing Does not Always Mean Ownership Knowing When to Federally Protect your Brand Dealing With the Emotional and Financial Sides of Brand Conflict More About Kelly Phillips Erb: Kelly is the creator and host of the new Taxgirl podcast series. Kelly is a practicing tax attorney who works with taxpayers like you every day. One of the things that she does is help folks out of tax jams, and hopefully, keep others from getting into them. Links Mentioned: Kelly's Website – Taxgirl Kelley Keller - LinkedIn  Keller Law Firm  Lady Antebellum Trademark Case Info