Staying Out of Legal Hot Water: Tips for PR Professionals

February 29 at noon at Mario's

What do public relations professionals need to know to prevent legal headaches while keeping themselves, their organizations and their clients out of trouble? David C. Stimson, Chief Trademark Counsel for Eastman Kodak Company, will share his experiences.

Learn to recognize potential legal issues before they become legal nightmares and the practical, real-world approaches you can take.

David C. Stimson, Chief Trademark Counsel for Eastman Kodak Company, will share his experiences and practical tips for avoiding damages, lawsuits or worse when using photos or names of people in your materials.

For example:

•  What trademark, copyright and right of privacy and publicity laws apply?
•  Can you use randomly taken photos and video of people at your events?
•  Are there new legal pitfalls when using social media?
•  After an event, can you post video clips of the celebrity speaker on your website?
•  Can you use an employee’s photo and/or comments on your organization’s website, Facebook page, brochure, etc. without getting written permission?

David has worldwide legal responsibility for Kodak’s trademarks and copyrights. He has also taught courses on trademark law and Internet law at Syracuse University College of Law and at University of Cincinnati College of Law.  He is active in the International Trademark Association in numerous capacities, including serving as president.

Whether you’re a relatively new public relations practitioner or a seasoned communications pro looking for a “legal refresher,” bring your questions and your notepad for a Leap Day program you won’t want to miss!