Baylor University v. Boston University: What the BU Battle Means for Your Brand | Roetzel & Andress

Baylor University filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Boston University, claiming that Boston’s use of an “interlocking BU” logo is confusingly similar to Baylor’s federally registered trademark, that also features an interlocking BU. Baylor claims it has used the interlocking BU design since at least 1912 and secured federal registration in 1987. According to the lawsuit, the two universities reached a coexistence agreement decades ago, under which both schools could continue using their respective logos without conflict as long as certain conditions were met. Baylor alleges that in recent years, Boston has expanded its use of the interlocking BU beyond the scope of the agreement, particularly on merchandise and club sports apparel. In 2021, Baylor formally requested that Boston University stop using the design, but Boston allegedly continued its use. Baylor is now asking the court to order Boston to cease using the logo and to destroy all infringing materials, arguing that the continued use causes consumer confusion and irreparable harm to Baylor’s brand.

This high-profile case serves as a clear warning: failure to register, monitor, and enforce your trademarks can expose your organization to costly legal disputes.

A registered trademark is more than a marketing asset. It is a legal tool that gives the owner exclusive rights to use a particular name, logo, or design in connection with specific goods or services. Registering a trademark with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office provides significant advantages, including nationwide protection, the presumption of ownership, and access to federal courts for enforcement. Without registration, your ability to stop others from using similar branding is more limited and often more expensive to assert. Baylor’s ability to bring this case and seek meaningful remedies is directly tied to the strength of its registered rights. For businesses and organizations, securing federal trademark protection is a critical step in building and defending a brand. The IP team at Roetzel can play an essential role in both protecting and enforcing trademark rights.

Our intellectual property attorneys can determine whether your branding is unique and legally available, file applications for federal trademark registration, and establish clear usage guidelines across your organization. Our attorneys can also monitor for potential infringement, issue cease-and-desist letters, and, when necessary, pursue litigation. If you are on the receiving end of a complaint or legal notice, a prompt and informed legal response is crucial. Trademark disputes can escalate quickly, and waiting too long to respond or enforce your rights can undermine your position. Acting early is often the difference between quietly resolving a matter and ending up in court.

If you suspect someone is copying your logo or branding, or if you are unsure whether your trademarks or tradenames are properly protected, it is important to act without delay.

Do not wait for a lawsuit to take your trademark seriously. Your logo is more than a symbol: it is your reputation, your identity, and your legal property.

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