Consent Judgment Protects Hip Denim Line’s Stylized ‘U’ and Distinctive Stitching Features; Result Sends ‘Clear Message’

Christie, Parker & Hale LLP, one of Southern California’s leading intellectual property law firms, today reported that it obtained a consent judgment in favor of its client, the maker of True Religion Brand Jeans (Nasdaq:TRLG), in a trademark-infringement action brought against a competing denim manufacturer.

The positive outcome concludes an action filed in U.S. District Court Central District against Triple S Productions, Inc. that alleged the defendant copied and made unauthorized use of registered and common-law trademarks and trade dress owned by Guru Denim, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of True Religion Apparel, Inc.

At issue was True Religion’s distinctive, stylized “U” used on its pants, jeans, shorts, jackets and skirts, as well as rainbow-colored and rotational stitching that are central to the iconic brand. Christie, Parker & Hale attorneys unambiguously established that their client holds the trademark on the “U” design and the rotational stitching constitutes a trade dress, both of which were illegally knocked-off and infringed by Triple S.

Under terms of the consent judgment signed by the parties, Triple S acknowledged the validity and ownership of Guru’s trademarks and trade dress and is permanently enjoined from imitating, copying or otherwise making unauthorized use of this intellectual property in its products. As part of the settlement, Triple S also agreed to reimburse Guru for attorney’s fees and costs associated with the matter.

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Nelson, the Christie, Parker & Hale partner who led the case for Guru, said: “We are highly gratified by the result in this action. Christie, Parker & Hale acted swiftly and vigorously on its client’s behalf, and this outcome sends a clear message. The owners of True Religion’s distinctive trademarks and trade dress will not hesitate to use every legal means to protect valuable assets and brand equity that have propelled the company to the top echelon of designer denim and are cornerstones of its widely popular products.”

Nelson described Christie, Parker & Hale’s experience representing intellectual property clients in the premium-denim segment of the apparel industry as “substantial in both breadth and depth.” He said the firm’s clients have included, in addition to True Religion, Guess?, AG-Adriano Goldschmied, LLC, and Lucky Brand jeans, until that company’s acquisition by Liz Claiborne Inc. (NYSE: LIZ). Beyond the denim sector, CPH also represents outdoor/performance-apparel maker Patagonia and action-sports manufacturer Volcom, among others, according to Nelson.

About Christie, Parker & Hale

Christie, Parker & Hale is a leading intellectual property law firm operating at the crossroads of science, technology and the law. Engaged exclusively in all aspects of intellectual property law, most of the firm’s attorneys hold degrees in engineering or the sciences, bringing added value and perspective to client service. Drawing on a 54-year heritage, the firm continues to propel innovation and stimulate business growth by protecting its clients’ most valuable assets – intellectual property.

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