GMSR’s appellate lawyers are well acquainted with the issues surrounding copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, and the right of publicity. GMSR handles appeals both for intellectual property owners protecting their rights and for defendants alleged to have violated the rights of another. The firm has also helped make important case law on standing and burdens of proof in the intellectual property arena, as well as on substantive matters.
GMSR’s insurer client issued a commercial general liability (CGL) policy to a nightclub. Club employees obtained various models’ photographs and used them in social media posts promoting the club. The models’ rights-management company sued the club, alleging that it had used the photographs without permission
In a published decision, the Court of Appeal affirms GMSR’s clients’ rights to Eleanor, the star car character of the Gone in 60 Seconds films
The clients had licensed their rights to produce replicas of Eleanor, the car that played a starring role in Gone in 60 Seconds, to the defendants. In return for the license, the defendants gave the clients, among other things, the first licensed replica they built.
Copyright infringement; work-for-hire doctrine
Jules Jordan Video, Inc. v. 144942 Canada Inc., et al. (9th Cir. 2010) 617 F.3d 1146 (United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit) [published]. In a published opinion, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals reinstated a $2.6 million judgment for GMSR’s client in
Former trade secrets owner had standing to assert trade secret misappropriation claim
GMSR’s clients owned the copyrights to and trademarks associated with the classic 1974 film, “Gone in 60 Seconds” and its iconic car character, “Eleanor.” In 2000, Disney (through an agreement with GMSR’s clients) released a blockbuster remake of the film under the same name, reprising
Bing Crosby’s heirs were denied their constitutional right to a jury trial of their claims
Trademark infringement and passing off
Burden of proof on issue of independent development in trade secrets case
Whether on appeal, assisting trial counsel, or advising government officials contemplating legislative action, GMSR provides unique insight into the complex laws that impact public entities.
Where coverage may exist, GMSR represents insureds on appeal effectively and efficiently. Where it does not, the firm protects insurers’ right to deny claims.
GMSR offers corporate clients objective assessments on appeal, based on a deep understanding of the limitations and opportunities of appellate review.
The firm’s lawyers are team players, collaborating with trial counsel at any level from legal strategy to writing or editing trial court motions and appellate briefs.
GMSR vigorously advocates the rights of individual plaintiffs and defendants, in both state and federal appellate courts.
As part of GMSR’s long-standing commitment to social justice and equality, GMSR provides pro bono appellate services to individuals and to community organizations on issues of concern.
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