Unless they companies bough a license from a company that held had the original TM rights, how did they register a TM?

A trademark identifies the source of goods or services. While it might also be the name of a character that alone would not qualify as a trademark...

What are the IP rights I have for photos taken of my product by someone else in a review of my product?

As noted, under the underlying rights were transferred to you, you would not be the copyright owner, so asserting that you are could be a problem....

You need to have the situation evaluated to determine the rights involved here. If it appears you have prior use rights to the trademark and...

The question is not whether you can use it, you most certainly can even without obscuring it provided that your use does not create any market...

Is Giphy legal?

There are a couple of issues. One is whether their use violates copyright or trademark rights. Even if that is not the case, the other issue is...

Can I trademark my original name used to sell the products of others?

Sure, if you are using the name to identify your goods and services in commerce, even if that is just at retail, etc. you can protect your own...

The difference is one hand you actually get legal advice and guidance and on the other you get Todd in customer service who will tell "I'm sorry,...

Is it possible to use a trade marked name if the businesses are unrelated?

Sure, if there is no chance of market confusion like Delta Airlines versus Delta faucets. You still need a proper clearance on it of course....

Do I have to copyright a phrase with an original design, and if so it starts to be popular, when do I have to get a patent?

Generally, short phrases are not covered by copyright unless there is sufficient creative expression. There is no way to coin to a phrase. Patent...

Can My former Co-Worker violate my Trademark?

These kinds of situations can get very chewy. You say "we" filed the trademark I assume with the USPTO right? This certainly indicates that the...