Last month Jim Nikolai and Jim Paige used a pending California case between Mattel, Inc. and MGA Entertainment as a backdrop for their presentation at the Innovator’s Forum sponsored by the Minnesota High Tech Association.  Mattel asserts it owns the rights in the hugely popular Bratz line of dolls introduced by MGA in 2001.  Mattel specifically accused MGA of copyright infringement, trade secret misappropriation, intentional interference with a contract and other acts of unfair competition.  Last week a California jury found in Mattel’s favor. 

Damages will be decided in a separate proceeding.  Industry analysts estimate MGA has made more than $500 million per year from the Bratz line.  If these estimates prove to be true, the damage award could be in the millions if not billions of dollars. 

Jim Nikolai       (612) 392-7302           Jim.Nikolai@nm-iplaw.com