Remember to Think Before You Canna-Brand

See the latest fallout from choosing a cannabis brand that too-closely matches an existing non-canna trademark: http://mjbizdaily.com/under-legal-pressure-seattle-mj-retailer-changes-name/

While we can't say that the replacement brand was much of an improvement ('pot shop' is descriptive and therefore difficult to protect), at least they are straying from the well-worn industry brand tropes (stash, green, canna, kind, etc.).  In this case, re-branding was the responsible choice, and should serve this company better in the long run.  A reminder not to get too attached to your weak trademarks.

Navigating Another Dimension: What to Expect from the 3D Printing Revolution

Take a look at my latest contribution to San Francisco Attorney Magazine! The recent surge in 3D printing technology, or additive manufacturing (AM), and its application across myriad industries poses a challenge to standards for intellectual property protection that could have long-lasting ripple effects if not addressed properly.

Cannabis: An American Industry Grows from Black Market to Bull Market

My latest from the pages of San Francisco Attorney Magazine: http://www.sfbar.org/forms/sfam/q22016/cannabis.pdf . A general overview of the American cannabis industry from inception, through prohibition and on to today's legalization efforts.  Our country's history with this unique plant is turbulent but also, apparently, circular.

Cannabis Companies Stand to Gain from a Look at the Branding of Brews

The cannabis industry has always had an historical mentor in the alcoholic beverages biz...This post from Huffington Business highlights lessons to take from the success of microbrew branding over the past couple decades: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/eleah-lubatkin/for-ganjapreneurs-lessons_b_9760810.html?utm_hp_ref=marijuana . While many cannabis companies have quickly learned that sophistication in branding equals success, it is just as important to carve out a recognizable foothold for these proprietary brands, protecting their value within an increasingly-crowded niche market.

America the Beautiful®

The battle over trademark rights to some of America's grandest landmarks smacks of some dystopian future 'Corpocracy'.  It also exposes a troubling lack of foresight on the part of the federal government and the National Parks Service.  Several facets of trademark law are at play in this dispute, and the ultimate outcome (barring settlement) has potential to set new precedent.  Read more here: http://www.outsideonline.com/2048041/who-owns-yosemite