Beyoncé has voluntarily dropped her lawsuit against Feyonce Inc., a Texas company that was selling unauthorized Beyoncé-related merchandise under its company label, targeting engaged couples. The mega star’s lawsuit, filed in 2016, had listed claims such as willfully engaging in trademark infringement, unfair competition, and trademark dilution, among others, seeking unspecified damages. It is unclear whether a settlement was reached, or if the lawsuit was just dropped.
Judge Claims Brazen Copying Isn’t Necessarily Confusing Consumers
In October 2018, Beyoncé petitioned the federal court for a permanent injunction to stop the sale of Feyonce merchandise, but lost. U.S. District Judge Alison Nathan reasoned that Feyonce’s choice to capitalize off the “exceedingly famous” Beyoncé trademark would not necessarily result in consumer confusion, which is a necessary element of trademark infringement. “A rational jury might or might not conclude that the pun here is sufficient to dispel any confusion among the purchasing public,” the judge wrote. Nathan then ordered both sides to discuss possible settlements and court dates. Perhaps dropping the lawsuit was a result of those court ordered discussions.
If you feel your trademarks are being infringed upon, contact a local trademark attorney. A legal expert can best discuss the legal nuances of trademark law and help you decide if you have a case and how best to proceed.
Related Resources:
- Find a Trademark Attorney Near You (FindLaw’s Lawyer Directory)
- Taylor Swift Sued for ‘Swift Life’ Gaming App Moniker (FindLaw Celebrity Justice)
- Greatest Hits: The Best of Celebrity Trademarks (FindLaw Celebrity Justice)
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