Difference between a trademark and a copyright?

[lildreamer316]

Where would I go on the web to find out if my idea needs to be trademarked or copyrighted? I am not sure which one I need; and do not have the money for a consulting fee. Sorry to solicit advice here; if this is inappropriate; please just PM me. Thanks....

[rug]

1. Try here:

http://www.piercelaw.edu/tfield/aVoid.htm

[sendero]

2. An idea..

... can be neither trademarked or copyrighted. Some ideas can be patented.

[lildreamer316]

3. well

something similar to what I want to do is already available--a product--but the market and way that I want to put it together are quite different. I'm not sure what I need to make sure the ppl who have the product similar to mine cannot take it over and sell it.

[sendero]

4. You will need.....

... a patent.

[lildreamer316]

5. thanks!

This way I can go ahead and search the patents.....

[sendero]

6. It will cost..

... some money, but if you have a good idea it's the only way to protect yourself. Of course, now you can do the basic groundword search online for free, so get going!!!!