On Friday, October 14, 2016, a federal judged ruled that Houston College of Law must change its name, at least for the duration of pending trademark litigation. The temporary injunction stems from a trademark infringement suit the University of Houston
Andrea Shannon (US)
Seattle Seahawks fans still the 12th Man under new trademark licensing deal with A&M
Football season is upon us, and fans of the Seattle Seahawks were no doubt celebrating the thrilling 12-10 victory over the Miami Dolphins during their first game of the season on Sunday, September 11, 2016. Seattle fans, who have been…
That’s My Mark! Enforcing Trademark Rights on Social Media
It is no doubt surprising and frustrating for brand owners when they find that someone has appropriated their trademarks on social media. A few of the common scenarios include:
- small competitors modifying logos and passing them off as their own;
…
USPTO announces new trademark use audit program
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”) has proposed a rule change that would enable it to conduct random audits of affidavits or declarations of use filed under sections 8 and 71 of the Trademark Act as a permanent extension…
U.S. Trademark Office proposes fee increases
Brand owners should be aware that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has proposed an increase of its trademark registration and filing fees. The proposed rule was published in the Federal Register, with the period for public comment expiring…
Redskins seek to join Slants case at Supreme Court
While football teams and fans across the country are gearing up for this weekend’s NFL draft, the Washington Redskins will be preparing for another potential showdown—this one at the Supreme Court. The Redskins petitioned the high court on Monday to…
Supreme Court asked to review disparaging trademarks decision
On Wednesday, April 20, 2016, the United States Patent and Trademark Office petitioned the Supreme Court to take up the case on disparaging trademarks. Petition, Michelle K. Lee, Director, United States Patent and Trademark Office, Petitioner v. Simon Shiao…
PTO not required to register disparaging trademark until cert deadline passes
In December 2015, the Federal Circuit struck down the “disparagement” clause of §2(a) of the Lanham Act on First Amendment grounds. However, according to a recent ruling from the court, the USPTO is not required to register disparaging trademarks just…
Federal court affirms cancellation of Redskins’ trademark
A federal district court in Virginia has affirmed the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office’s (“USPTO”) 2014 decision to cancel the Washington Redskins’ federal trademark registrations pursuant to Section 2(a) of the Lanham Act. Mem. Op., Pro-Football, Inc. v. Blackhorse…
Consumer confusion with marketing on social media
Social media often serves as a powerful mechanism that trademark owners can employ to promote and expand their brands, but a case currently pending in the Southern District of California illustrates just how easily social media can also be used…