2 Teams with same name. Is that OK?

Cartoonist Rick · Joined: 10 Apr 2009 Posts: 4

Hi Everyone! This is Rick the Cartoonist of www.Barbecuelogos.com.
I have a request for a logo from a fireman in Indiana. He found out the name they'd like to use is the same as some other team in California.
Is it OK for 2 teams to have the same name? More importantly, can you get in trouble for that, legally? I once created a logo for a client in Texas. ( Actually, he was Police Sgt in Houston ). I let him know in advance there was another team with the same name also in Texas. Only difference one was "Barbeque Team" and the other "Cooking Team" He went ahead with the name anyway. Any feedback on this is appreciated! Thanks!

BBQMAN · Posted: May 31 2009 Post subject:

I'm no expert by any means, but I would think not Rick.

The clip-art for my business was just that- clip art. But my name is certainly not up for grabs.

Garry had a guy in California directly copy his logo for their BBQ joint, probably not appreciated! Wink

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BBQMAN
"I Turned A Hobby Into A Business".
Providing "IMHO" Since 2005.

SoEzzy · Posted: May 31 2009 Post subject:

The first team to compete with a name is the one to "own" it IMO.

There is the Old Team name database at http://www.bbqteamnames.com/ and the KCBS has their database of team names and info too, with the advent of the online browser search, there really isn't the need for duplication.

This same question came up, I think the other way around though, http://www.thesmokering.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=27748 .
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Here's a change Robert.

I still work here!

Cartoonist Rick · Joined: 10 Apr 2009 Posts: 4

Thanks to both SoEzzy and BBQ Man for their feedback.
I will definitely discourage duplication and pass on the link
http://www.bbqteamnames.com/
> By the way, SoEzzy the fireman client in question is one and the same as the link posted in your reply
http://www.thesmokering.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=27748
> Methinks he's in the process of coming up with a different name.
Of course, all I can do is give the info to clients. Ultimately I can't force their decision.

SoEzzy · Posted: Jun 01 2009 Post subject:

And also at the end of the day business is business, if someone wants something, and you turn out the original art work, that what they wanted.

If you know the same name is being used, because you did the design work for the other team, then you can advise on that.

I don't think you need to put a "due diligence" clause on your work, (consult an attorney for the facts though)! Wink

_________________
Here's a change Robert.

I still work here!