A company’s intellectual property can range anywhere from information of operational procedures and product designs to company logos. Should a company in Louisiana feel that another party is using its intellectual property without consent, it may wish to take steps to protect its interests and pursue restitution. Nike has recently filed a lawsuit against NBA star Kawhi Leonard, accusing him of breach of contract and fraud.
According to reports, the incident began after Leonard filed a lawsuit over a claw logo. The logo was reportedly created while Leonard was still signed with the company. Although Nike claims to have a trademark for the claw logo and states the Leonard has used it without consent, Leonard argues that it was he who created it and states that he will continue to use it on a variety of non-Nike products.
However, Nike asserts that the logo was created by a team of designers. The company also argues that Leonard had previously admitted that he was not involved in the design process. The company states that, by continuing to use the logo on non-Nike merchandise without permission, Leonard is in violation of the terms of his contract. Nike also claims that he is attempting to claim ownership of the logo through fraudulent means.
Many companies will go to great lengths to protect their trade secrets. When business owners feel that a breach of contract has occurred, they could choose to seek advice on their available legal avenues from an experienced attorney. An attorney can examine the circumstances a client in Louisiana is facing and assist in forming a strategy to protect his or her business interests through the necessary channels.
