Q: I'm trying to start a t-shirt business and do not want to commit copyright infringement.
I have modified a collegiate logo, but people will still associate it with the college (that's the point). I just want to figure out whether I will get in trouble or not. I can send a picture of the logo to you if you can help me! Thanks!
A:
If you are going to sell goods based on the Georgia Bulldogs logo, only the University of Georgia's IP management department will be able to decide if you will get in trouble or not. Modifying a copyrighted image for your own use is copyright infringement. Modifying a logo is also almost certainly trademark infringement.
You can seek permission from the rights holder to use their image and may have to pay a licensing fee or a portion of your profits.
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