In honor of National Beer Day, the Wright Firm presents this story of beer and the law:
Naming rights in the liquor industry are a huge legal issue. Everyone wants their microbrew’s name to be as unique and have just as much flavor as the beer itself. Recently however, two different microbrews found themselves BOTH using the name “Salvation” for their product. Prime fodder for an infringement lawsuit, right?
Rather than sue, the brewers actually contacted each other and attempted to work out a solution themselves. What resulted was a new product that blended the two potentially infringing beers into a hybrid called “Collaboration Not Litigation Ale.”
Now attorneys in the business warn that this could cause problems for the brewers in the future, as the lack of aggressive protection of a trade name can make a beer company lose value. The brewers claim not to be worried as they have no intention of every selling their businesses.
While beer can bring people together, if you love it too much it can get you into legal trouble in the form of DWI, divorce, or possibly even bankruptcy. If you’ve drunk yourself into a tight spot, The Wright Firm is here to help! Give us a call at (972) 353-4600 or check us out on the web at www.thewrightfirm.com. And please – Always drink responsibly!
Original article from the American Bar (not THAT kind of bar…) Association Journal can be found here: http://www.abajournal.com/magazine/article/bottoms_up_litigation_down_microbrewers_forsake_litigation_opt_for_collabor/
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