want a domain, but scared of possible copyright issues

[AffiliateDreamer]

Hi,

Is there some company that can verify that a given domain name is safe to purchase?

The last thing one would want to do is purchase a nice domain and then have someone go to courts with you over it.....

[Receptional]

Not a central location, because I don't know what country you are in nor which countries you intend your site content to be seen on. However, you can employ people to do a "trademark search". Probably best to buy the domain, then do the search before using it.

[davezan]

It's actually better if you first search for any trademark use for the word/s you have
in mind. The best online search to use is google itself.

Once you've made up your mind how you're going to use the name, register it and
use it carefully.

[chicagohh]

Buy the name first. Even if you come up empty in a search that does not prevent someone from making a claim against you. Likewise, finding that someone has made some kind of claim for that term does not mean they would win the name.

Then again, for some people, the sky is always falling.

[AffiliateDreamer]

oh, i'm in north american.

and secondly, the domain is already taken. It is selling for over $5000 USD!

[Webwork]

There are services that will perform such a search. I've never used such a service. I'm certain their opinions are loaded with conditions, exceptions, etc. Not an insurance policy (unless they offer one).

I use Google, check things out at the USPTO.gov site, read the WIPO decisions and then fly by the seat of my pants.

Regarding trademarks my rule is steer clear except where generic words or phrases are involved. Then I drive judiciously whilst carrying an adequate (not big) stick.

Webwork is Webwork, Esq.

Since he has a fool for a client he knows no better.