Can an intellectual property lawyer help you purchase an already existing copyright that has been abandoned?

Yes!, But as Helen correctly points out, whether or not a copyright has been abandoned is a complex question. Especially with several parts, each...

If some one offers you photos for free can you use them as you wish?

Giving a photo as a gift is not the same as giving the copyright or giving permission to publish and use the photo for commercial purposes. As a...

Can an author write about an individual in a book without their permission? A recent movie was made about the individual.

Yes you can, provided the information is truthful and "public" (not private.) For more detail consider speaking to an experienced...

Can a university create courses for the purpose of generating marketing content for itself without compensating students?

WOW! I agree. What a rip off! What a terrible example to set for students! First thing, read the student handbook and any other school rules from...

Can I sue and win against a company that opened down the street with a similar name to my company?

You are encountering one of the main problems of trying to use a trademark that is highly descriptive. You cannot have exclusive rights to words...

A TM challenge has been made but no paperwork has been served yet. Date is coming up on the TTABVUE site though. What to do?

Consult a trademark litigator in your area (California) asap. There may be additional issues of California state unfair competition laws involved....

What does it meant to have a default by clerk against defendant?

It could mean different things, none of them good. A "default" is a failure to appear and can, if not relieved by the court, result in waiver of...

With competing clothing brands what is considered infringement?

Great question. Generally, there are no copyrights in dress and apparel designs because they are functional. Be careful NOT to copy any decorative...

So sorry you are having this issue. Monthly retainer payments are the exception , not the rule, largely antiquated relics from an era when...

If a company trademarks their name as "Tazz", can I trademark the name "Tazz Pazaz"? Both companies share the same industry

Registration would probably be refused on a so-called "2(d) likelihood of confusion with a senior mark" basis. The first part of a mark is called...