I ♡ Trademarks Newsletter Issue #439
Bri Van Til | July 08, 2025
Sign up for Alt Legal’s mildly humorous, pun-filled “I ♡ Trademarks” weekly newsletter to stay current on all things trademarks and IP.
Unintended Consequences
Apparently all the headlines about Lululemon’s suit against Costco have led to a surge of sales. I wonder if their supplies are being stretched thin.
After comments made by President Trump late last month, three separate trademark applications have been filed for MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN. Of course this article includes the obligatory explanation that US trademark priority goes to the first to use the mark in commerce.
This fabulously punny article about a cannabis trademark dispute is a great reminder that weed better submit evidence in a timely manner.
Mine Over Matter
According to the 5th Circuit, the Lanham Act isn’t there to protect you from your mark’s co-owners.
This Irish course about Creative Commons licensing could help you understand what can and can’t be used in various situations. As can this past webinar recording about copyleft.
As AI creates more intellectual property, articles like this explaining the ownership of its products are great resources for clients and prospective clients.
Lasting Legacy
I don’t know if this was their aim, but Target filed the most US trademark applications last year.
The next round of internet top-level domains (TLDs) will be offered soon. The brands you represent could own not just their domains but an entire TLD. Join us and the teams from Com Laude and Seed IP for a rundown of what this means for brands and how to prepare to get yours.
WNBA star Angel Reese has added significantly to her repertoire of trademark applications.
I was frankly surprised that there was a second season of Squid Game, let alone a third, but there might be spin-offs in the making as the show’s director seeks to expand his legacy.
Professional Concerns
Getting this job as commercial counsel at Canva can help you design the ideal career.
I wonder if familiarity with all of Stephen King’s novels would help you get this job as AGC of IP at Reddit. You know, ’cause when they ask if you’ve read It, you can say “yep!” The best jokes are the ones you have to explain, I’m pretty sure.
If you get an interview for this senior IP counsel position at NHL, I’m sure you’ll skate right through it.
Have an open role on your team? Send a link to your job listing to [email protected], and we’ll publish it in our next newsletter.
Odds and Ends
Two different judges in the Northern District of California have ruled that AI companies’ use of copyrighted materials for training were fair use. However, the ruling might not be a slam dunk for AI companies.
The USPTO recently updated their security protocols for trademark applications, and our dear friend Mathilde Florenson has summarized the new expectations for you here.
When can utility patents create tension for trademark rights?
This comic seeking to explain how sequential art can teach people about trademarks is pretty fabulous.
Texas wants its state business courts to have jurisdiction in IP matters. Well, except for patents. Y’all can keep those.