“When Lady Gaga went after fansite LadyGaga.org last month, some were confused. But the pop star continued with her fight to shutter the site, and now she has lost.
The National Arbitration Forum ruled on the LadyGaga.org complaint last week, finding in favor of webmaster Miranda. A panel of arbitrators decided that the noncommercial fansite does not violate Lady Gaga‘s trademark.
Can Gaga now go to court? And why didn’t she file a lawsuit in the first place?
Filing the LadyGaga.org complaint with the arbitration board was ultimately less costly than a lawsuit.
Persons who register websites are often subject to ICANN’s Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy. ICANN regulates internet domain names worldwide.
The policy requires domain owners to subject themselves to arbitration when disputes arise. Miranda, the owner of LadyGaga.org, is subject to this requirement.
Not only is arbitration significantly less costly, it is much quicker. It only took a month for the panel to publish its decision. Moreover, the process is simpler, allowing webmasters to represent themselves during proceedings. . .” Celebrity Justice has the full story.
Photocredit: Fashionstyle
The FASHIONENTLAW Blog features legal insights, commentary, and analysis on contracts, intellectual property, business disputes, media, fashion, entertainment, and emerging issues shaping the creative industries.
Authored by Uduak Oduok professionally known as Ms. Uduak, a California fashion and entertainment lawyer with over 24 years of legal experience, the blog is designed for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.
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