Legal Question in Consumer Law in Virginia

question about copywrite and trademark laws

I was wondering if it is illegal to get a tattoo on my arm of a copywrited logo. Specifically, I would like to get a tattoo of the Special K logo (Kellogg's) on my arm. Please give me details on if this is OK. If it is not OK to use the exact logo, is it OK if i alter it slighty, even thought it will probably still look like the logo. Thank you for your time.


Asked on 10/26/02, 12:41 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Michael Hendrickson Law Office Michael E. Hendrickson

Re: question about copywrite and trademark laws

Having not reviewed the applicable copyright laws, I will nonetheless venture the opinion

(which you may freely disregard)that indeed you could most likely enshrine the Special K logo

in the form of a tattoo somewhere on your body without fear of a suit from the venerable

cereal maker requiring you to cease and desist.

Since they long ago gave up sandwich boards and other crude implements to advertise their products, and now have only sophisticated media to rely on, they might actually welcome your

display as a flattering supplement to their current advertising efforts. (Although, obviously, I cannot in fact speak for their true sentiments in this matter.)

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Answered on 10/26/02, 11:36 am


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