You open your inbox and there it is, a cease and desist letter. Trademark attorney Jessica Eaves Mathews explains what founders should actually do in that moment, and just as importantly, what not to do.

In this video, Jessica breaks down why not all cease and desist letters carry equal legal weight, and why the two worst reactions, ignoring the letter or responding emotionally, can both lock you into a bad position before you even understand your rights. She walks through what actually matters: who has priority, whether the marks are truly similar enough to confuse customers, and why having a registered trademark does not automatically mean the sender has the stronger claim. Jessica shares a case where a letter that looked terrifying on arrival resolved without litigation or a rebrand once the sender’s actual rights were properly analyzed.

What’s covered:

• Why cease and desist letters vary widely in legal strength
• The two most common and costly founder reactions
• Why registration alone doesn’t guarantee superior rights
• Coexistence and rebranding as legitimate, non-losing outcomes
• What to actually do before you respond to anyone

If you’ve received a cease and desist or think one might be coming, set up a consultation:

https://www.leveragelegalgroup.com/contact/