Blackletter

In this episode of the Black Letter Podcast, host Tom Dunlap unveils a groundbreaking initiative by Dunlap Bennett & Ludwig: the Small Business and Inventor Hub (SBIH). This new hub is dedicated to aiding independent inventors, creators, and small to medium-sized business owners who find high-level intellectual property services financially out of reach. Tom discusses the importance of this initiative in empowering small businesses and inventors to protect their intellectual property, thereby contributing significantly to America's innovative landscape. He highlights the hub's features, which include facilitating the filing and management of patents and trademarks, and providing access to experienced IP lawyers. With staggering statistics on small businesses' contributions to patents and employment of scientists and engineers in the U.S., this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship and intellectual property law.

In this episode of The Black Letter Podcast, Ryan Kennedy, a seasoned real estate lawyer, returns to share his indispensable insights tailored for anyone involved in the real estate market. From buyers and brokers to small-time landlords, Ryan unpacks critical advice to navigate the complexities of real estate transactions and legalities. He emphasizes the importance of reading and understanding contracts, maintaining awareness of regulatory obligations, and the advantages of engaging with professional property management. This episode is a must-listen for professionals seeking to safeguard their interests and optimize their real estate endeavors.

In this captivating episode, host Tom Dunlap discusses the landmark intellectual property case involving Marvel characters and their co-creator, Jack Kirby. Tom explores the intricate legal battles fought by Kirby's heirs in their attempt to regain control over the iconic Marvel characters such as the Avengers, X-Men, and The Fantastic Four. With insightful analysis, Tom explains the nuances of "work for hire" under the Copyright Act of 1976, and how it impacted Kirby's rights to his creations. This discussion not only sheds light on the complexities of copyright law but also serves as a crucial reminder about the importance of clear contracts in creative and commissioned works. Join Tom as he breaks down this pivotal case and its broader implications for creators and the creative industry.

In this episode, host Tom Dunlap discusses the landmark Supreme Court case, Matal v. Tam, and its profound implications on trademark law and free speech. Through the story of Simon Tam and his band The Slants, Tom explores the journey of challenging the disparagement clause of the Lanham Act—a case that ultimately led to a unanimous Supreme Court decision supporting the right to re-appropriate racially disparaging terms under the First Amendment. Join Tom as he unpacks the intricacies of trademark regulations, the concept of commercial speech, and how this case has reshaped legal precedents and cultural dialogues around offensive trademarks.

In this episode of the Blackletter podcast, host Tom Dunlap discusses the intricacies of real estate and real property law with Guest and parter at DBL, Ryan Kennedy. The spotlight of the discussion is on the recent settlement between the National Association of Realtors (NAR) and a major class action lawsuit, which has introduced significant changes in the way cooperative compensation is handled in the real estate industry. Ryan sheds light on how these changes could potentially reshape the dynamics between buyers’ and sellers’ agents, affect commission structures, and influence the overall cost of housing. Furthermore, the episode explores the unexpected ways local governments use public real estate listings for assessing property taxes and permitting issues, adding another layer of complexity to property transactions. Join us as Tom and Ryan offer insights that are crucial for anyone involved in real estate transactions, whether they are buyers, sellers, or industry professionals.

Join Tom Dunlap on this week’s episode as he discusses the fascinating history and legal battles of the "Happy Birthday" song. Once subject to stringent copyright claims by Warner Chappell Music, this beloved tune has finally entered the public domain. Discover how filmmaker Jennifer Nelson challenged these claims, leading to a landmark 2015 ruling that freed "Happy Birthday to You" from copyright restrictions. Tom explores the complexities of copyright law, changes over the decades, and what this means for public access to creative works. Don't miss this insightful exploration of copyright, creativity, and the liberation of one of the world's most famous songs.

Join Tom Dunlap on this intriguing episode of the Black Letter Podcast Monday Morning Minute, where he discusses the landmark copyright law case between Google LLC and Oracle. This episode unpacks the complex legal battle over Java APIs, a critical component in software development that facilitates interoperability between applications. Tom breaks down the essence of APIs, the heated legal arguments, and the transformative notion of fair use that led to Google's victory in the Supreme Court. Whether you're a software developer, a legal enthusiast, or just curious about how major tech companies defend their innovations, this episode offers a comprehensive look into a case that has shaped the landscape of software development and copyright law.

Today, we're joined by attorney Ryan Kennedy from Dunlap Bennett & Ludwig, who brings a wealth of experience in real estate and real property law. With over 15 years in the field, Ryan shares his journey from an intrigued law student to a seasoned attorney deeply involved in property development and zoning cases. Tune in as we explore some of Ryan's most challenging and rewarding cases, including a significant zoning opposition that protected sensitive wetlands. Whether you're a legal professional, a business leader, or just curious about the interplay of law and real estate, this episode offers valuable insights into the complexities and impacts of real property law.

In this episode of the Blackletter Podcast, Tom Dunlap explores a landmark legal battle between tech giants Apple and Samsung, commonly referred to as the "Smartphone Wars." Starting in 2011, this series of over 50 lawsuits across 10 countries highlights the complexities of design and utility patents in the tech industry. Tom discusses the specifics of the case, including Apple's initial billion-dollar victory and the eventual Supreme Court decision that reshaped the outcome. Tune in to understand how this epic intellectual property struggle not only influenced legal precedents but also consumer perceptions and the dynamics of the global smartphone market.

Welcome to the first episode of "The IP Chronicles," a 10-part mini-series on the Black Letter podcast. Join Tom Dunlap as he delves into the intriguing world of intellectual property law, kicking off with the landmark case of Disney Enterprises Inc. vs. Redbox Automated Retail. Discover how the first sale doctrine was challenged in the digital age, pitting the media giant Disney against the rental service Redbox over the resale of digital download codes. Explore the nuances of copyright law, the evolution of digital commerce, and what this case means for the future of IP. Whether you're a legal enthusiast or just looking for something new to discuss at your next happy hour, this episode is packed with insights and engaging commentary. Don't miss it!