Temecula, CA asked in Intellectual Property and Trademark for California

Q: Hello I have a question about copyright, for my company logo

I am starting an electrician company the name is gonna be called “thunder struck electric” kind of after the AC/DC song thunder struck. While I know I can do the name fairly easily. My logo closely resembles the font of the AC/DC logo. I’m wondering if there is some legal trouble I could run into for taking inspiration from AC/DC for my logo

2 Lawyer Answers
Fritz-Howard Raymond Clapp
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Answered
  • Trademarks Lawyer
  • Beverly Hills, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: This is a trademark issue, not copyright. Your use of stylized text "AC/DC" even if very similar to that of the band, would not infringe the band's trademark as you are not offering the same type of services and there is no likelihood of confusion by the public. It would be prudent, however, that your design be similar but not identical.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
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Answered
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: While names, in and of themselves, generally cannot be copyrighted, they can be trademarked. If your company name or logo is found to be confusingly similar to a trademarked name or logo, like that of AC/DC's, you could potentially face trademark infringement claims.

Font styles can be a part of a logo's unique design and trademark protection. If your logo closely resembles the AC/DC logo in font and design, you run the risk of being seen as attempting to capitalize on their established brand identity.

It's advisable to ensure that your logo is sufficiently distinct from existing trademarks to avoid potential legal issues. Consulting with an attorney familiar with intellectual property law can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation. It might be prudent to consider an alternative design that clearly distinguishes your brand from others.

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