Mickey & Minnie Mouse enter the public domain – does copyright afford you the protection you need?

‘Steamboat Willie’ a 1928 short film featuring early, non-speaking versions of Mickey & Minnie, are now available to the public in the USA, after Disney’s copyright expired. This means that anyone can now use those versions of Mickey & Minnie Mouse, without permission or cost. No licence is required to use those works. Of course, … Continue reading Mickey & Minnie Mouse enter the public domain – does copyright afford you the protection you need?

Tesla -v- Tesla Chicken & Pizza – considerations for your Trade Mark

Tesla recently applied to the UK Intellectual Property Office, to invalidate Mr Ali’s registered trade mark ‘Tesla Chicken & Pizza’. Tesla argued that it has such an established reputation (even in dissimilar goods and services) that the registered mark would take unfair advantage of it and further, that the mark was registered by Mr Ali … Continue reading Tesla -v- Tesla Chicken & Pizza – considerations for your Trade Mark

Language matters: taking the adversity out of family law

The use of language is critical to a successful divorce or separation. Language affects behaviour and everyone involved in the separation process should be mindful of the language they use and the impact it has, and to consider moderating their language where necessary. The language we use has a profound impact on the mindsets of … Continue reading Language matters: taking the adversity out of family law

IS THERE SUCH THING AS A “GOOD DIVORCE”

Separations, break ups and divorces can really take their toll on everyone involved. This includes the parties themselves but most importantly their children and not to forget extended family and friends. So how can that be avoided? Is the amicable split the preserve of the rich and famous only ? And is it realistic to … Continue reading IS THERE SUCH THING AS A “GOOD DIVORCE”

The Need For Change – Maternity Care in the NHS

Sadly, as we are all aware, it has recently come to light that there have been a series of high profile systemic failings within NHS Maternity Services across the UK. As a result maternity services are being highly scrutinised. The failings have included various scandals from Lucy Letby, Morecambe Bay and Shropshire to toxic work … Continue reading The Need For Change – Maternity Care in the NHS

Domestic Abuse Awareness month

October is most commonly known as ‘spooky season’ but it is also domestic abuse awareness month. The purpose of recognising this annually is to raise awareness about the signs of domestic abuse, how to report abuse and most importantly to encourage individuals to speak up. It is alarming that 2022 saw a 7.7% increase of … Continue reading Domestic Abuse Awareness month