Discussion:
What is the name of your state? New York
My roomates and I attend Syracuse University and we started a small t-shirt company for fun.
Our t-shirts say "Syracuse is Oranges" which is a parody of a non-copywritten phrase used in a neighboring town.
We wish to trademark the design of our t-shirt. Our only worry is that Syracuse University holds a trademark on the word "Syracuse"
Should we be worried that we will be turned down for getting the design trademarked?
- Josh
Answer:
Our t-shirts say "Syracuse is Oranges" which is a parody of a non-copywritten phrase used in a neighboring town. Phrases are not copyrightable anyway, so this is a non-issue! The more important question: do they have a trademark on the phrase?
We wish to trademark the design of our t-shirt. Our only worry is that Syracuse University holds a trademark on the word "Syracuse"
Should we be worried that we will be turned down for getting the design trademarked? Well, do they hold a trademark on the word "Syracuse?" You can check to find out for sure.
As to whether or not you would be denied a trademark, that would depend on exactly what Syracuse University (or others) have trademarked, and exactly what you are trying to trademark. It might be worth discussing this with a lawyer experienced in trademarks before spending a lot of money on trying to obtain a registration.