Richard Magazine Sets Precedent in Doctrine of Foreign Equivalents Decision
The Trademark Trial and Appeal Board limits the doctrine of foreign equivalents in Ricardo Media Inc. v. Inventive Software LLC.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 28, 2019
RIDGEFIELD PARK, NJ, (Aug. 28, 2019) – On August 21, 2019, the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board decided the matter of Ricardo Media Inc. v. Inventive Software LLC. The TTAB chose not to apply the doctrine of foreign equivalents to personal names from common languages, finding that “Ricardo” is not a foreign equivalent of “Richard.”

Inventive Software attorney Robert Ross spoke about the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board’s decision to dismiss the opposition to Richard Magazine’s trademark registration.
“The decision to not apply the doctrine of foreign equivalents was well supported and well founded. As the United States continues to become more multilingual and multicultural the doctrine of foreign equivalents shall continue to be a valuable tool in trademark practice,” said Ross. “But, it is precisely because of the growing multiculturalism and multilingualism that required the determination that the doctrine of foreign equivalents not be applied in this case. Because of this rich melting pot of languages, cultures, and ideas, the American Consumer can and does recognize personal names from these common languages, and take each personal name as it is, in its own language. To do otherwise would identify a different person and only increase the likelihood of confusion.”
For more information or further comment, please contact Robert Ross at robertross@inventivesoftwarellc.com.
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ABOUT RICHARD MAGAZINE
Richard Magazine is a digital media publication and e-commerce destination that merges fashion, beauty, lifestyle, and pop culture. Since its debut in 2016, the online magazine has covered top runway shows, cosmetics launches, red carpet events, and trending style news.
ABOUT INVENTIVE SOFTWARE
Inventive Software is an innovative technologies company that produces web-based solutions, which bring brands and users closer together. By building enlightening and intuitive platforms focused on refreshing creativity and user experiences, Inventive Software is able to generate groundbreaking interfaces that unlock any company’s potential for opportunity.
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