Your intellectual property can be extremely valuable. Some of it can directly increase your bottom line, while other kinds can separate you from your competitors and generate goodwill. But not all intellectual property is as obvious as trademarks, copyrights, and...
Combining Technical Knowledge And Legal Action Since 2002
Kevin A. Keeling
What is a copyright and how is it different from a trademark?
If you have recently downloaded music, read a novel or watched a movie in Texas, it is likely that the works you have been consumed have been copyrighted. Copyrighting is a type of protection built in the U.S. Constitution for original works of authorship that are...
Art dispute sparks intellectual property lawsuit in Texas
In Texas and across the United States, people who rely on creativity and innovation to make a living must be aware of the need for copyright protection. If they do not ensure their work is adequately shielded, it can cost them immeasurably and even ruin their chance...
Why may a person want to register a copyright?
Creative expression and artistic innovation are cornerstones of cultural development throughout the United States. Here in Texas, countless artists, musicians, writers, and architects work with passion and care to make beautiful, thought-provoking, and unique tangible...
Exercise bike company Peloton in trademark dispute
In Texas and across the nation, the ongoing health crisis has necessitated that people adapt to the changed circumstances. A major part of that has involved people adjusting how they exercise. This has led to something of a boom for home exercise equipment. That...
How can businesses protect their trade secrets from publication?
Trade secrets can make or break Texas businesses. They can be the factors that distinguish new entities from their competitors and make certain products popular while similar products languish. When a business develops or acquires a profitable trade secret, they will...
What is copyright infringement?
If someone has used your copyrighted materials without your permission, there is a possibility that they may have infringed upon your copyright. In order to be protected under copyright law, your work must be ‘original’ and be ‘fixed in a tangible medium of...
Tesla accuses new employee of stealing trade secrets
When a company hires an employee, they assume they will follow the company rules regarding copyrights and trademarks. Usually, employees sign an agreement with their company when they are hired to protect company secrets. The car company, Tesla, is accusing one of its...
Nicki Minaj, Tracy Chapman settle copyright dispute
Music fans in Houston may recognize singer Tracy Chapman’s 1988 song, “Baby Can I Hold You.” Thus, they may be interested to hear that a copyright dispute between Chapman and rapper Nicki Minaj regarding the use of that song has recently been settled. The settlement...
New trademark law goes into effect this year
While it is common knowledge that the 2021 budget bill passed at the end of 2020 (the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021, H.R. 133), it may come as some surprise that this bill also included changes to existing US trademark law. Along with the budget bill’s...