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Posted Jan 30th, 2012
I designed a bumper sticker with a song line ( changed one word from that line). I plan on selling
my design. Is that illegal? Thank you



Legal Topic Area: Intellectual Property in IL

The question does not include enough information to give you a definitive answer. Presumably the line is well-known or recognized, otherwise it would not work as a bumper sticker. If the artist can claim trademark protection in the phrase, there may be an issue.

If not, then it may be ok. Particularly if the use is a parody and does not trade off of the original work, it may be permissible. There are not enough facts provided to consider these options.


Answered on Jan 31st, 2012 at 2:35pm