On January 22 the USPTO announced a pilot program to streamline cancellation proceedings for allegedly abandoned and unused trademarks. Under this program, once an answer is filed, the assigned TTAB Interlocutory Attorney has the parties participate in a mandatory discovery conference. At the mandatory discovery conference both the Interlocutory Attorney and an Administrative Trademark Judge are present. The conference is not just for discovery but also covers stipulations of fact, evidentiary stipulations, limits to discovery, and potential summary judgment. Once a case is ready for a final decision, the decision will be made within 50 days. This expedited process is more efficient and cost effective than a traditional cancellation proceeding and should be considered as an option by clients who want to cancel a registered mark for abandonment or lack of use.
WHIPgroup successfully obtained an Order of Preliminary Injunction in connection with a Complaint and Emergency Motion for Temporary Restraining Order and Preliminary Injunction filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia [Read More…]
On January 26, 2023, Wes Whitmyer of WHIPgroup will present on patents and trademarks at TechXel’s Venture Expert Series. For event details, click here. View the flyer.
WHIPgroup continues to represent its client’s best interests, filing counterclaims in an ongoing arbitration administered by the American Arbitration Association. WHIPgroup brought claims for breach of contract and unjust enrichment as well as tortious interference [Read More…]