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About Lee Horner
Expertise
I`m a practicing attorney in California and Arizona. I was formerly a director of Rexall Showcase International.

Experience
I've been an independent business owner apart from the law practice since 1988 and believe in the concept of getting in control of your own destiny.

Education/Credentials
Business degree from the University of New Mexico; Doctorate of Law (JD) degree from Lincoln Law School of Sacramento, CA. Admitted to practice before the Ninth Circuit and all courts in Arizona and California.

You are here: Experts > Business > Small Business: UK > Home Business > using someone's likeness for profit

Home Business - using someone's likeness for profit

Expert: Lee Horner - 10/30/2009

Question
Hi Mr. Horner, I have a problem I hope you can answer. I, along with my mom and sister, are in the midst of starting a home-based business. Our business will be service- and retail- related; we plan on offering specialty t-shirts, personal assistance and event planning. I have a question regarding the t-shirts.

1) We want to make t-shirts with michael jackson's name printed on them. Because he is deceased, is it o.k. to use his likeness on t-shirts to make a profit? If not,

2)what would I have to do in order to use someone's likeness?
Thank you
P.S. I live in Illinois
Lisa

Answer
Hi Lisa -- I'm not an expert in this area but you probably have to get the written consent of his estate to use the likeness or face possible litigation by them to get you to stop doing so & damages etc.

I'd suggest getting a second opinion, though. Good luck and thanks for your question.

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