Why Not Throw in the Design of the Kitchen Sink?
When it comes to seeking patent protection for a new product, companies are often faced with a dilemma: delay patent filings until the product has proven commercial value, or gamble substantial resources trying to create a portfolio of utility and design patents for a product that may not be successful?
Appeals by the Numbers
Two of the main substantive causes for refusals of U.S. federal trademark applications are descriptiveness refusals (under Section 2(e) of the Lanham Act, and likelihood of confusion refusals (under Section 2(d)) of the Act.
New Jersey Must Allow Gay Marriage, Judge Rules
A New Jersey judge ruled on Sept. 27 that the state must allow same-sex couples to marry, since failing to do so would deprive them of rights that now guaranteed by the federal government, according to a report in <i>The New York Times</i>.
Criminal Prosecution
With the dramatic influx of counterfeit goods in the marketplace, brand name manufacturers now, more than ever, have their work cut out for them as they seek to protect the reputation and value of their trademarks.
Recent Guidance on China's Employment Law
The Supreme People's Court, the highest court in China that issues guidance on the application of Chinese law, recently provided a set of clarifications to the Employment Contract Law.
Quarterly State Compliance Review
This edition looks at some legislation of interest to corporate lawyers that went into effect between Aug. 1 and Oct. 1, including amendments to Delaware's corporation and LLC laws.
