Q: Are word designs on a mug or shirt considered copyright?

A: Probably not. There is a formal copyright and a common law copyright that attaches to the intellectual property of the person that creates it. An author does not have to copyright a script in order to prevent someone copying it directly, which is what you propose.

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A: I realize you asked 2 questions. "Probably not" replies to the second question- Can someone else make a mug with the exact same words on it? As for "Are word designs on a mug or shirt considered copyright?" the response is probably yes. A design is unique to the creator and the use of particular words in a phrase (like "Have a nice day" or "Baby on board") can also have the uniqueness to subject it to a common law copyright or even an issued copyright. The idea is that the "intellectual product" is actually PROPERTY that a person can have title to. These can be subject to copyright protection, whether the copyright is a registered copyright or not. Making the same product with the exact same words is usurping the original creator's "intellectual property."

A: Did this spray tanning salon employ you? Or did you just sell it some equipment? You posted in employment law, which is usually reserved for employment questions. Did the owner personally guarantee the payment on the purchase of the equipment from you? Often in financing commercial equipment the finance company requires a personal guarantee. If you have one then you sue everyone. If you are going in Small Claims, you might as well sue everyone anyway, in case there is a problem with the formation or maintenance of the LLC. You need to check the Secretary of State website to verify the status of the LLC, because if it is suspended, there is no LLC and you sue the individual.

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