Beastie Boys’ sampling of “common, trite, generic three-note sequence” from plaintiff’s copyrighted composition held to be de minimis and not actionable. Newton v. Diamond, et. al., No. 02-55983 (9th Circuit, Nov. 4, 2003).
Supreme Court Refuses to Rollover For Consumer Union
The Supreme Court has denied Consumer Union’s petition for cert. to hear its appeal of a decision allowing Suzuki Motors’ lawsuit regarding Consumer Union’s magazine article reporting that the Suzuki Samurai was dangerous. Via Boston Globe. Background here. Washington Post discussion here.
Scottish Football Trademarks
The Scotsman helpfully reports that two thirds of the Scottish Football League teams have not registered their trademarks, including premier league club Dunfermline. Words to a trademark attorney’s ears:
It would cost as little as £200 to register with the patent office. Yet the 27 clubs that have not registered will find it more difficult
Ceramic Bank Trade Dress Case
Perine Lowe, manufacturer of A BLOCK TO GROW ON ceramic bank prevails against Dolly, Inc., manufacturer of BABY’S KEEPSAKE CERAMIC BANK in trade dress case in Central District of California. Prevailing party press release here.