Q: Can the words “Grand Theft” be used in the name of a business without any legal copyright/trademark risks?
Could the business also have a general car theme without any legal risks?
A:
While "Grand Theft" isn't exclusively owned by any company, using those words together could raise concerns due to their strong association with the popular video game franchise "Grand Theft Auto." Take-Two Interactive owns trademarks related to this phrase in the gaming and entertainment context.
You might face potential legal challenges if your business appears to deliberately reference or capitalize on the game's recognition. The car theme could compound this risk since vehicles are central to the game series. Even if you operate in a different industry, the publisher might argue that your branding creates consumer confusion or dilutes their trademark.
Consider exploring alternative names that capture your intended message without potential trademark complications. If you're committed to this specific name, consulting with a trademark attorney would help evaluate the risks and potentially identify ways to distinguish your business clearly from the game franchise. They can also guide you through trademark searches and registration processes to protect your chosen business name.
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