Legal Question in Intellectual Property in Washington
use of brand name
in a published story about drinking beer, the main character's name is Blatz, is this a violation of the exclusive rights of the brand name of Blatz Beer? Though never in the story does Blatz brand beer ever appear.
Asked on 11/08/08, 8:15 pm
1 Answer from Attorneys
Mason Boswell
Boswell IP Law
Re: use of brand name
I think this would be considered fair use. The question is whether there is any likelihood of confusion as to whether your product (the story) comes from Blatz Beer, which seems unlikely. Still, if you are basing a major business decision off of this, then you should talk to a trademark attorney about your specific situation. Otherwise, if they do not like it then they are likely to ask you to take it down (assuming it is published on a website).
Answered on 11/14/08, 4:42 pm
Related Questions & Answers
Looking for something else?
10,200 active attorneys ready to answer your legal questions today.
Featured Attorneys
Earn additional revenue and grow your business.
