Intellectual Property Law in the Sports and Entertainment Industries

In this detailed yet readable legal analysis, the authors thoroughly evaluate the connections between intellectual property and the sports and entertainment industries, covering everything from copyrights and patents to trademarked logos and marketing strategies. This complete survey of intellectual property law in the sports and entertainment industries evaluates the key connections between these arenas and provides an overview of trademark law for sports. The authors clearly explain the rights of publicity and privacy for entertainers and athletes, the ethical considerations involved in obtaining and using intellectual property, and how licensing agreements relate to intellectual property law. The detailed, up-to-date legal analyses are written by practitioners in the field for those without legal expertise, yet still contain useful information to the legal community. The book covers all forms of intellectual property, including copyright, patents, trademarks, trade dress, trade secrets, and the right of publicity. It will also discuss marketing, broadcasting, films and books, sports equipment, international considerations and trade issues, and intellectual property in cyberspace.

Walter T. Champion is law professor at Texas Southern University School of Law. Kirk D. Willis is managing partner of The Willis Law Group in Dallas, TX. The late Patrick K. Thornton was associate professor in sports management at Rice University.

1 Introduction 2 The Nature of Marketing Walter T. Champion, Kirk D. Willis, Patrick K. Thornton, and Lawrence Ruddell 3 What's with the Dimples on a Golf Ball? Patents in the Sports and Entertainment Industries 4 Who Is the King of the Road? Copyright in the Music Business 5 Mickey Mouse and Copyrights 6 Broadcasting and Licensing Rights 7 March Madness® and Trademarks 8 Trade Dress and Boutique Golf Clubs Walter T. Champion and Tina Y. Burleson 9 Trade Secrets Walter T. Champion, Kirk D. Willis, Patrick K. Thornton, and Joey Barajas 10 The Right of Publicity 11 Unjust Enrichment Walter T. Champion, Kirk D. Willis, Patrick K. Thornton, and Joey Barajas 12 Unfair Competition Walter T. Champion, Kirk D. Willis, Patrick K. Thornton, and Joey Barajas 13 Deceptive Trade Practices 14 Domain Names 15 Intellectual Property in Cyberspace 16 The Branding of Johnny Football 17 International Aspects 18 Advocacy and Litigation Strategy Walter T. Champion, Kirk D. Willis, Patrick K. Thornton, and Joey Barajas 19 Ethical Considerations 20 Hip Hop and Intellectual Property Notes Selected Bibliography Index About the Authors