SRIS PC law firm Virginia
Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. is a US law firm founded in 1997, with a principal location in Virginia and a location in Pereira, Colombia (by appointment only). The firm serves international clients with US legal needs, including brand protection and business entity formation. For Colombian entrepreneurs and companies entering the US market, the firm’s US-licensed attorneys handle all US-law aspects, while Eric Duport Jaramillo, Of Counsel · Colombia Practice, serves as a liaison for Spanish-speaking clients. Mr. Duport Jaramillo is licensed in Colombia and is not admitted in any US state bar; his role is limited to Colombia-law matters and client liaison. Reach Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
US Brand Protection for International Businesses
US trademark registration under the Lanham Act (15 U.S.C. § 1051 et seq.) provides nationwide priority and a legal presumption of ownership. For a Colombian company selling goods or services in the United States, a federally registered trademark is often the most effective way to secure brand rights. The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) examines applications for distinctiveness and potential conflicts with existing marks. Registration can be based on actual use in US commerce or on a bona fide intent to use, which allows foreign applicants to reserve a mark before launching in the US market.
Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. guides clients through the entire USPTO process—from trademark clearance searches and application drafting to responding to office actions and maintaining registrations. Because US trademark law is territorial, a Colombian registration does not automatically protect a brand in the United States. The firm’s US-licensed attorneys, led by Mr. Sris, handle all substantive US trademark work. For Colombian clients who prefer to communicate in Spanish, Eric Duport Jaramillo, Of Counsel · Colombia Practice, facilitates communication and ensures that the client’s business context is accurately conveyed to Mr. Sris. Mr. Duport Jaramillo is licensed in Colombia and is not admitted in any US state bar; his role is limited to Colombia-law matters and client liaison.
Business Entity Formation in the United States
Choosing the right US business structure—such as a limited liability company (LLC) or a corporation—affects liability protection, tax treatment, and operational flexibility. Colombian individuals and companies can form and own US entities; there is no US citizenship or residency requirement for ownership of an LLC or corporation.
The firm assists with entity selection, drafting operating agreements or bylaws, and coordinating with accountants for US tax compliance. Because the US entity will be subject to US law, all legal advice on formation and governance is provided by Mr. Sris and the firm’s US-licensed attorneys. Eric Duport Jaramillo, Of Counsel · Colombia Practice, supports Colombian clients by explaining US legal concepts in Spanish and by helping to bridge cultural and business differences. Mr. Duport Jaramillo is licensed in Colombia and is not admitted in any US state bar; his role is limited to Colombia-law matters and client liaison.
How Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. Assists Colombian Clients
For a Colombian business or individual, navigating US brand and entity law requires both US legal knowledge and an understanding of the client’s home-country context. The firm’s approach is built on a clear division of responsibilities: Mr. Sris and the US-licensed attorneys handle all US-law matters, while Eric Duport Jaramillo, Of Counsel · Colombia Practice, serves as a cultural and linguistic bridge. Mr. Duport Jaramillo is licensed in Colombia and is not admitted in any US state bar; his role is limited to Colombia-law matters and client liaison. This structure ensures that every US legal document, filing, and strategy is prepared by an attorney authorized to practice US law, while the client receives support in Spanish and with an appreciation for Colombian business norms.
The firm’s Virginia principal location is by appointment only, and consultations can be conducted remotely. Clients may reach the firm at (888) 437-7747 or via colombia@sriscounsel.com. All initial discussions are confidential and do not create an attorney-client relationship until a formal engagement letter is signed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a US trademark if my business is based in Colombia?
If you sell products or services in the United States, a US trademark registration is strongly recommended to protect your brand in the US market. Trademark rights are territorial; a Colombian registration does not extend to the United States. Federal registration with the USPTO gives you nationwide priority, the right to use the ® symbol, and the ability to enforce your mark in federal court. The firm can evaluate whether your mark is eligible for US registration and guide you through the application process.
What type of US business entity should I form?
The choice between an LLC and a corporation depends on your goals for liability protection, tax treatment, and management structure. Many international entrepreneurs choose an LLC for its flexibility and pass-through taxation. A corporation may be preferable if you plan to seek venture capital or eventually go public. The firm reviews your specific situation—including Colombian tax implications—and recommends the structure that aligns with your objectives. All US legal advice is provided by the firm’s US-licensed attorneys.
Can a Colombian citizen own a US company?
Yes, there is no US citizenship or residency requirement to own an LLC or corporation. Colombian citizens can be sole owners or shareholders of a US entity. You will need a registered agent in the state of formation and must obtain an EIN from the IRS. The firm can assist with the entire formation process and coordinate with your Colombian advisors to ensure compliance with both US and Colombian requirements.
How does the firm handle the language barrier?
Eric Duport Jaramillo, Of Counsel · Colombia Practice, is a native Spanish speaker and serves as a liaison for Spanish-speaking clients. Mr. Duport Jaramillo is licensed in Colombia and is not admitted in any US state bar; his role is limited to Colombia-law matters and client liaison. He ensures that the client’s instructions and business context are clearly communicated to Mr. Sris, and he can explain US legal concepts in Spanish. All US legal work remains under the supervision of Mr. Sris and the firm’s US-licensed attorneys.
What is the process for registering a trademark in the US?
The process begins with a comprehensive clearance search to identify potential conflicts, followed by preparation and filing of an application with the USPTO. The USPTO examines the application for substantive and procedural compliance, which may result in an office action requiring a legal response. If approved, the mark is published for opposition and, if no opposition is filed, proceeds to registration. The entire process typically takes 8–12 months, though timing varies. The firm manages each step and advises on strategies to strengthen the application.
How do I get started?
Contact Law Offices of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 or colombia@sriscounsel.com to schedule a consultation. During the initial discussion, we will learn about your business, your US market goals, and any existing Colombian brand registrations. We will then outline a strategy for US brand protection and entity formation, including a clear explanation of fees and next steps. Consultations are by appointment only and do not create an attorney-client relationship until a formal engagement letter is signed.