What is the purpose of a cease and desist letter?

The purpose of a cease and desist letter is primarily to demand the cessation of trademark infringement. This legal document is typically sent by an individual or entity that believes its trademark rights are being violated by another party. The letter serves as a formal request for the infringing party to stop using the trademark, which could be causing confusion among consumers or diluting the value of the trademark holder's brand.

The focus of such a letter on trademark issues highlights the importance of protecting intellectual property rights. By clearly stating the infringement, the trademark owner not only protects its assets but also attempts to resolve the matter without resorting to litigation, which can be costly and time-consuming. This proactive measure can lead to a quicker and more amicable resolution as opposed to legal proceedings.

The options referring to a patent infringement or extending a patent application do not pertain to the specific purpose of a cease and desist letter, as this document is specifically aimed at addressing issues related to trademark rights. Likewise, applying for a trademark is a different process altogether and does not involve addressing infringement.