Trademark & Brand Protection Update | January 2026
Federal Circuit Affirms LeBron’s Priority in Marks I AM MORE THAN AN ATHLETE Based on Valid Assignment of Common Law Rights Jonathan Menkes & Alexander G. Trimes Game Plan, Inc....
Federal Circuit Affirms LeBron’s Priority in Marks I AM MORE THAN AN ATHLETE Based on Valid Assignment of Common Law Rights
Game Plan, Inc. (“Game Plan”), a nonprofit organization that supports student‑athletes in underserved communities, appealed a decision of the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board (“TTAB”) to the Federal Circuit (see...
Commissioner’s Exercise of Vacant Director’s Duties Does Not Violate Appointments Clause
ARTHREX, INC. v. SMITH & NEPHEW, INC.
Before Moore, Reyna, and Chen. Appeal from the Patent Trial and Appeal Board.
Summary: During vacancies of Director and Deputy Director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, the Commissioner of Patents may exercise the Director’s authority to decide rehearing of inter partes review decisions without violating the Appointments Clause of the Constitution.
Knobbe Martens Welcomes New Class of Associates
Knobbe Martens announces its continued commitment to providing the highest quality legal services with the addition of 30 new Associates firmwide. “Our new associates have a wide range of talents...
