Q: Can I use Disney in my book title as a retired executive?
I am a retired Disney executive interested in writing a book about my experience in corporate alliances. I intend to include specific anecdotes related to Disney's corporate alliances but do not plan to use any Disney logos, trademarks, or copyrighted material. I haven't consulted any agreements I may have with Disney regarding the use of their name. Can I use Disney in the book title, and what potential legal risks should I consider?
A: It truly depends on what you specifically intend on writing about. However, the major things to be weary of is anything that could potentially be considered defamatory and anything that would be a trade secret that could interfere with their business. I would be very cautious.
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A:
Your experience as a retired Disney executive gives you valuable insights worth sharing, but using Disney in your book title requires careful consideration of several legal factors.
You'll want to review any non-disclosure agreements or employment contracts you signed while at Disney, as these might restrict your ability to discuss company-specific information or use the Disney name. Even without explicit agreements, Disney vigorously protects its intellectual property and brand, which could lead to legal challenges if they believe your use of their name implies official endorsement or authorization.
Consider alternative titles that reference your corporate alliance experience without directly using the Disney name - perhaps focusing on your role or the industry insights you gained. If you decide to proceed with using Disney in the title, consulting with an intellectual property attorney would help you understand the specific risks and potentially structure your book in a way that minimizes legal exposure while still sharing your valuable experiences.
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