Brandon

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Can You Trademark Your Name, Image, and Likeness

If you are an entrepreneur or creator today, your identity is no longer just something you carry around. It has become part of your business, and the internet is more than willing to borrow it, remix it, and occasionally misuse it.
Artificial intelligence has accelerated that shift. Your likeness can now be recreated with such precision that even you might hesitate before insisting it is fake. And when your likeness is misused, it does not just create confusion. It can damage your brand, dilute your reputation, and directly affect your income.

A properly filed federal trademark does gives you access to monetary remedies, including damages and profits, when someone misuses your identity.

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The Intellectual Property Realities of “Based on a True Story” Films

The Intellectual Property Realities of “Based on a True Story” Films At Harbor and Main Law, we help creators and businesses protect their ideas while navigating the legal realities that come with telling real stories. Whether you are producing a film, building a brand, or developing content inspired by actual events, you need guidance that

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A Trademark Clearance Search: How Your IP Attorney Saves You From a Branding Meltdown​

A Trademark Clearance Search: How Your IP Attorney Saves You From a Branding Meltdown As a IP Attorney and Business Attorney who also handles the day‑to‑day legal needs of growing companies, I’ve seen the excitement, the stress, the late‑night ideas, and the “this will only take five minutes” decisions that somehow turn into full‑blown legal

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Protect Your Business: 4 Things A Business Attorney Wants You to Know if ICE Arrives at Your Business

Many business owners are unsure what to do if Immigration and Customs Enforcement shows up at their workplace. It can be stressful, confusing, and disruptive, especially if your staff has never dealt with law enforcement before. As general counsel for a variety of businesses, I help employers understand what their rights are and how to prepare their teams so they can respond calmly and confidently.

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Illinois Right to Privacy in the Workplace Act: What Employers Need to Know in 2026

Key Protections Under the Illinois Right to Privacy in the Workplace Act For growing businesses, especially those without in house legal teams, understanding workplace privacy laws is essential for compliance and avoiding costly disputes.  The Illinois Right to Privacy in the Workplace Act (RPWA) is one of the state’s most important employer obligation statutes, yet

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Illinois Employment Law Compliance: Key Challenges for Small and Medium‑Sized Businesses in 2026

The Illinois Employment Law Landscape Staying ahead of Illinois employment law compliance is becoming increasingly challenging for small and medium‑sized businesses. Illinois is known for its robust worker protections, aggressive enforcement posture, and frequent legislative updates. As a result, employers must navigate a complex and ever‑changing patchwork of state, federal, and local requirements. Failing to

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Review your employment policies to ensure compliance with the Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act.

Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act: What Your Business Needs to Know to Succeed in 2026

Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act: What Your Business Needs to Know to Succeed The Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act (PLAWA) represents one of the most significant statewide employment law changes in recent years. Effective January 1, 2024, the law requires most Illinois employers to provide up to 40 hours of paid

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The 10 Common Contract Mistakes Small Businesses Make

The 10 Common Contract Mistakes Contracts are essential tools for building strong business relationships and securing long-term success. They define your rights, outline each party’s responsibilities, and help prevent costly disputes.  A well-drafted contract sets clear expectations among employees, partners, contractors, and clients ensuring that your business achieves its goals. When contracts aren’t reviewed by

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