Freedom of religion has deep roots in American history, stemming from the great diversity of peoples, faiths, practices and philosophies that have helped define our civic culture and values. But in application, freedom of religion–and from religion–have proven subtle and more thorny questions, especially when applied to private modes of business, association, and conduct. In short, what can a private employer be Read More
Not Just a Pretty Face: Some Tips on Protectable Marks in a World of Copycats and Grifters
Most people are familiar with the trademark symbol (™), registered trademark symbol (®), and their service mark equivalents. But most people are likely unfamiliar with the Lanham Act, which is the law behind those symbols. Enacted just a few months after the end of WWII, the Lanham Act established a number of the intellectual property protections upon which businesses depend today to signal and promote the quality Read More
The Peculiar Case of the Cease & Desist
“Stranger Things” was all the rage In 2017. Looking to cash-in on the popularity, a couple of friends launched a “Stranger Things” pop-up bar in Chicago. The bar was a hit with locals. But it was less so with the legal team at Netflix. It wasn’t long before Netflix sent the bar owners a cease and desist letter, threatening to call the bar owners’ moms and citing the horrors of Demogorgon if the bar lingered beyond Read More
