Once a particular mark is used by an organization in commerce, it qualifies for trademark protection so long as it is the first use of the mark. There is no mandate that requires a trademark to be registered and unregistered trademarks are still afforded protection from infringement and dilution. However, there are significant benefits afforded to those that wish to register their trademarks with a national trademark office, such as the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) in the United States. These benefits include nationwide rights to the trademarked material, the ability to use federal courts when needed for infringement or dilution matters and the potential to recover greater damages in lawsuits. Despite these advantages, trade marking can be a long, thorough, and expensive process that may require the assistance of legal counsel. Therefore, only marks those strongly wish to gain these benefits for should pursue filing with the USPTO.