Legal Question in Intellectual Property in Indiana
Trademark Licensing
My friend and I are starting new internet t-shirt company. I am interested in making t-shirts of ''Family Guy'', ''That 70's Show'', ect. However, all rights belong to Fox / other big companies.
How do I legally obtain rights?
Do I pay a ''royality'' per t-shirt sold? one time fee?
Any info you could give me would be greatly appreciated.
3 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Trademark Licensing
Without getting permission from Fox you would not be able to proced. It all depends whether Fox will give the license to you to reproduce their trademarked and copyrighted material. You need to retain an IP attorney and approach through them.
Re: Trademark Licensing
First, trademark and copyright licensing may be worth looking into. Second, information regarding these registrations can be looked up through the Copyright Office or USPTO websites, including the owners of these copyrights and marks.
Some people choose to take these matters into their own hands. Others seek out an intellectual property attorney to handle such things. The choice is up to you. Feel free to e-mail me. I can also recommend someone who could help you.
Re: Trademark Licensing
I would suggest you go to the Fox website and see if they have any information on licensing. Fox may not be the only rights holder; the producers of the shows, if other than Fox, may also retain rights.
There are industry standard royalty rates depending upon the goods, markets, etc. You may have some difficulties getting their attention unless you plan to sell lots of product. I'm not trying to discourage you, just letting you know what my experience has been.
You are going about this with the what looks like the right approach; finding more information, etc.
Best regards and good luck in your venture.