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CAUSE NO. 02-13-00409-CV
IN THE COURT OF APPEALS
FOR THE SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF TEXAS
FORT WORTH, TEXAS
Barbara Louise Morton d/b/a Timarron College Prep
Appellant
V.
Timarron Owners Association, Inc.
Appellee
Trial Court Cause No. 096-260449-12
Hon. R. H. Wallace, Jr., Presiding Judge
BRIEF OF APPELLANT
NORRED LAW, PLLC
Warren V. Norred
TX Bar Number 24045094
200 E. Abram, Suite 300
Arlington, TX 76010
P. 817.704.3984; F. 817.549.0161
Attorney for Appellant
ORAL ARGUMENT REQUESTED
ACCEPTED02-13-00409-CV
SECOND COURT OF APPEALSFORT WORTH, TEXAS2/4/2014 10:31:04 PM
DEBRA SPISAKCLERK
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02-13-00409-CV, Appellant's Brief (Morton) Page 1
I. Identity of Parties and Counsel
The following is a list of all parties and all counsel in this
matter:
A. Appellant is Barbara Louise Morton d/b/a Timarron College
Prep, defendant in
the trial court.
The attorney representing Appellant is:
Norred Law, PLLC
Warren V. Norred, State Bar Number: 24045094
200 E. Abram, Suite 300
Arlington, TX 76010
P. 817.704.3984; F. 817.549.0161
[email protected]
B. Appellee is Timarron Owners Assoc., Inc, plaintiff in the
trial court.
The attorney representing Appellee is:
Wilson Legal Group P.C.
John T. Wilson, State Bar Number 24008284
16610 Dallas Parkway, Ste. 1000
Dallas, TX 75248-6806
P. 972.248.8080 F. 972.248.8088
[email protected]
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02-13-00409-CV, Appellant's Brief (Morton) Page 2
II. Table of Contents
I. Identity of Parties and
Counsel.........................................................................
1
II. Table of Contents
..............................................................................................
2
III. Index of Authorities
..........................................................................................
1
IV. Statement of the Case
.......................................................................................
1
V. Statement Regarding Oral Argument
................................................................
4
VI. Statement of Jurisdiction
..................................................................................
4
VII. Issues Presented
...............................................................................................
4
VIII. Statement of Facts
............................................................................................
5
IX. Brief Procedural History
..................................................................................
7
X. Summary of the Argument
..............................................................................10
XI. Arguments
......................................................................................................12
XII. Prayer
............................................................................................................18
XIII. Appendix - The following documents are included in the
attached Appendix. 19
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02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
III. Index of Authorities
Statutes TEX. BUS. & COMM. CODE 16.26
............................................................................
8
TEX. CIV. PRAC. & REM. CODE 51.012
.....................................................................
5
Tex. Civ. Prac. & Rem. Code 73.001
.....................................................................
3
Tex. Gov't Code 22.220
...........................................................................................
5
Cases BHP Petroleum Co. v. Millard, 800 S.W.2d 838 (Tex. 1990)
............................9, 10
Digital Imaging Assocs. v. State, 176 S.W.3d 851
(Tex.App.--Houston [1st Dist.]
2005, no pet)
....................................................................................................9,
11
ECC Parkway Joint Venture v. Baldwin, 765 S.W.2d 504, 514 (Tex.
App.--Dallas
1989, writ denied)
.................................................................................................12
Falls County v. Perkins & Cullum, 798 S.W.2d 868,
(Tex.App.--Fort Worth, no
writ.)
...............................................................................................................
10, 11
J.C. Hadsell & Co., Inc. v. Allstate Ins. Co., 516 S.W.2d
211, 213-14 (Tex. Civ.
App. -- Texarkana 1974, writ dism'd w.o.j.)
........................................................12
Newman Oil Co. v. Alkek, 614 S.W.2d 653 (Tex.Civ.App.--Corpus
Christi 1981,
writ ref'd n.r.e.)
.................................................................................................9,
11
Noe v. McLendon, 2007 Tex. App. LEXIS 5708 (Tex.App.--Fort Worth
2007, no
pet.)
.......................................................................................................................12
Page v. Page, 780 S.W.2d 1 (Tex.App.--Fort Worth 1989, no writ)
......................12
Placid Oil Co. v. Louisiana Gas Intrastate, Inc., 734 S.W.2d 1,
5 (Tex. App. --
Dallas 1987, writ ref'd n.r.e.)
................................................................................13
Tex. Mut. Ins. Co. v. Ledbetter, 251 S.W.3d 31 (Tex.
2008)...................................10
Winslow v. Acker, 781 S.W.2d 322, 328, 1989 Tex.App.--San
Antonio 1989, writ
denied)
..................................................................................................................13
IV. Statement of the Case
1. Appellant provides tutoring services, identified with the
public using the
common law trademark "Timarron College Prep", that has been
active since
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02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
2008, during which time it has provided tutoring services, which
falls under
trademark International Class 41.
2. Appellee owns "Timarron Owners Association, Inc.", which is a
Texas-
registered trademark under International Class 36 in 2003.
3. Appellee filed a civil suit for trademark infringement,
unjust enrichment,
tortious interference with prospective business relations, and
unfair
competition, and sought actual damages, special damages, and
costs of suit.
4. During the pendency of the civil suit, both parties began the
registration process
with the United States Patent and Trademark Office ("USPTO")1,
and both
parties filed oppositions2 before the USPTO
3 to prevent the other party from
obtaining its registration.
1 Timarron Owners' Assoc. Inc. actually applied for three
trademarks employing the "Timarron"
name; the other two are not in dispute, as they are stylized
marks and do not conflict with
Appellant's text-only mark. 2 As paraphrased from
http://www.uspto.gov/trademarks/law/TTAB.jsp - An opposition
proceeding is an administrative process available before the
United States Patent and Trademark
Office's Trademark Trial and Appeal Board. In an opposition, a
person may oppose the
trademark application of another party in order to stop that
party from obtaining a federal
registration. Before a trademark can register, the mark must be
published for opposition in
the Official Gazette. Publication starts the opposition period,
which initially lasts 30 days,
but may be extended. During the original opposition period, any
party who believes that it
would be damaged if the published mark obtains registration may
oppose registration. Although
there are many possible grounds for opposition, the most common
one is a claim that a
likelihood of confusion exists between the trademarks. In this
type of proceeding similar to a
civil court case, a three-judge panel issues a decision after
both sides have had an opportunity to
present their evidence and make arguments in legal briefs before
the Board. 3 References to the USPTO in this document may be to the
trademark examination process, or to
the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board, depending on context.
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02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
5. Appellee successfully requested that the USPTO abate the
opposition on the
trademark disputes until this Texas civil case was concluded,
arguing over
Appellant's objection that the results of this state case would
provide valuable
insight and factual conclusions to assist in adjudication of the
trademark
oppositions and registration process before the USPTO.
6. Appellant filed a motion for summary judgment to end the
dispute in the state
case. On the date on which Appellee's response was due, Appellee
dismissed its
claims, and argued that its dismissal ended the dispute because
Appellant's
counterclaims were merely defensive. Appellant argued that
Appellee's
dismissal could not eliminate Appellant's counter-claims for
declaratory
judgment and attorney fees because the counter-claims were not
merely
defensive, and had greater ramifications for the trademark
disputes before the
USPTO.
7. After receiving argument from the parties, the trial court
entered Appellee's
dismissal.
8. Appellant asks the Court of Appeals to reverse the trial
courts ruling
dismissing Appellant's counterclaims, and remand the case to the
trial court for
consideration of Appellant's motion for summary judgment.
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02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
V. Statement Regarding Oral Argument
9. The Court would benefit from oral argument in this case
because having the
attorneys present for oral argument to answer the Courts
questions regarding the
dispute's interaction with the trademark disputes before the
USPTO and aid the Court
to resolve the case more quickly.
VI. Statement of Jurisdiction
10. This Court has jurisdiction under TEX. GOV'T CODE 22.220 and
TEX. CIV.
PRAC. & REM. CODE 51.012.
VII. Issues Presented
11. The trial court erred as a matter of law when it granted
Appellee's Motion to
Dismiss, as the decision is incompliant with TEX. R. CIV. PRO.
162, in that the
dismissal prejudiced Appellants right to be heard on a pending
claim for affirmative
relief.
12. The trial court erred as a matter of law when it granted
Appellee's Motion to
Dismiss because Appellant had claimed attorney's fees, and TEX.
R. CIV. PRO. 162
states that a dismissal shall have no effect on any motion for
attorney's fees pending
at the time of dismissal.
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02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
VIII. Statement of Facts
13. The following facts must be considered as true from the
Appellants evidence
and pleadings under the standard of review this Court applies to
appellate
proceedings, in that admissible evidence was provided to support
all of the facts
asserted, and no contravening evidence was offered.
14. Since 1999, Appellant has provided tutoring services from
Southlake, Texas,
using the word "Timarron" in her business name since that time,
and specifically
doing business as "Timarron College Prep" since May 2008. [C.R.
34, 9]
15. Appellee, a homeowners association, owns a Texas-registered
trademark for
insurance and financial services, falling under trademark
International Class 36.
[C.R. 14]
16. So many businesses use the word "Timarron" in Southlake and
the surrounding
area that it provides no identification of a provider of any
particular good or
service. [C.R. 32, 2]
17. The word "Timarron" has been used openly for years by the
following
businesses:
a. "The Courtyard at Timarron" is a current business in
Southlake, TX. b. "The Villages at Timarron" is a current business
in Southlake, TX. c. "Timarron Family Medicine, PA" is a current
business in Southlake, TX. d. "Timarron at Creekside Park" is a
current business in Southlake, TX. e. "Timarron Financial Services,
LLC" is a current business in Southlake, TX.
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02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
f. "Timarron Partners, Inc." is a current business in Grapevine,
TX. g. "Timmaron LLC" is a current business in Richardson, TX. h.
"Timarron Capital Inc" is a current business in Irving, TX. i.
"Timarron Custom Homes, Inc." is a current business in Keller, TX.
j. "Timarron Venture, Ltd." is a current business in Dallas, TX. k.
"Timarron Venture One, L.C." is a current business in Dallas, TX.
l. "Timarron Shopping Center, L.P." is a current business in
Dallas, TX. m. "Timarron Mortgage Group Inc." is a current business
in Dallas, TX. n. "Timarron Land Corporation" is a current business
in Mesquite, TX. o. "Timarron Skin & Laser" is a current
business in Southlake, TX. p. "Timarron Professional Eye" is a
current business in Southlake, TX. q. "Timarron Golf Club
Maintenance" is a current business in Southlake, TX. r. "Timarron
Family Medicine" is a current business in Southlake, TX. s.
"Village at Timarron 4120" is a current business in Southlake, TX.
t. "Timarron Tiger Sharks" is a current business in Southlake,
TX.
[C.R. 32-33, 3; 33, 6]
18. As an example of the USPTO's adjudication of marks
concerning the word
"Timarron", the Court should note that the USPTO provided a
Notice of Allowance
for "TIMARRON CAPITAL, INC." as a standard character mark in
2006 for
commercial loan services. Though that mark was eventually
abandoned for lack of
use, the USPTO did not see any conflict between "TIMARRON
CAPITAL, INC"
and "TIMARRON OWNERS ASSOC., INC." [C.R. 33, 5]
19. No reasonable person would see all of the businesses with
the name
"TIMARRON" in and around Southlake, TX and think that they were
all owned by
the same organization. [C.R. 33, 6]
20. Appellee has previously filed trademark infringement suits
against
organizations using "Timarron", most recently losing at summary
judgment against
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02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
Neighborhood Networks Publishing, Inc. in the 352th District
Court, Cause No. 352-
260448-12. [App. A, p.163]
IX. Brief Procedural History
21. On January 13, 2012, Appellant filed an application for
federal trademark
registration for "Timarron College Prep" with her tutoring
service. [C.R. 79-86]
22. About July 26, 2012, Appellee filed suit in the 96th
District Court, Tarrant
County, for trademark infringement under TEX. BUS. & COMM.
CODE 16.26, unjust
enrichment, tortious interference with prospective business
relations, and unfair
competition. Appellee alleged that Appellants use of the
trademark caused confusion
in the marketplace, directly and detrimentally impacting
Appellees ability to
consummate sales with customers. [C.R. 4]
23. About September 7, 2012, Appellant denied the allegations in
Appellee's
Original Petition, and responded with a counterclaim for
declaratory judgment that it
was not infringing any trademark belonging to Appellant, as well
as a claim to cancel
Appellee's Texas-registered mark after transfer to Travis
County, tortious
interference with business relations, and attorney fees under
CPRC 37. [C.R. 19]
24. On October 18, 2012, Appellee filed Opposition 91207557 to
Appellant's
federal trademark application S/N 85516680, and then moved for a
suspension of
that opposition on June 12, 2013, arguing that the instant case
would resolve the
matter. On July 2, 2013, Appellant filed a response, arguing
that the state case could
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02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
be handled by the 96th District Court and the trademark
oppositions by the USPTO.
The USPTO granted the motion to suspend. [C.R. 110-114]
25. On Nov. 15, 2012, Appellee filed an application for federal
trademark
registration for "Timarron" in financial and insurance services.
[App. A, p.1]
26. On May 21, 2013, Appellant requested and received an
extension of time to
file opposition to Appellee's application S/ N 85780484, setting
the deadline to
August 21, 2013. [App. A, p.169]
27. About July 15, 2013, Appellant filed Defendants Traditional
and No-
Evidence Motion for Summary Judgment ("Appellant's MSJ") against
Appellees
claims, as Appellee could show no evidence that Appellant used
Appellees
registered mark in connection with the selling and offering for
sale of goods that
were likely to deceive or cause confusion or mistake as to the
source or origin of
said good, which is required to constitute infringement under
TEX. BUS. & COMM.
CODE 16.26, because Appellees mark represents only insurance
& financial
products found in International Trademark Class 36, and
Appellant uses the mark
only to advertise tutoring services that no reasonable person
could associate with
Plaintiff's mark. [C.R. 26]
28. About August 13, 2013, Appellee filed Plaintiffs First
Amended Petition,
asserting additional infringement causes of action. [C.R.
39]
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02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
29. On August 15, 2013, a week prior to the scheduled hearing on
August 22,
2013 for Appellants MSJ to be heard and on the day that
Appellee's response to
Appellant's MSJ was due, Appellee filed its Plaintiffs Notice of
Non-Suit and
Dismissal Without Prejudice as to Entire Suit with Brief in
Support. (Appellee never
filed a response to Appellant's MSJ.) [C.R. 58]
30. On August 20, 2013, the trial court entered an order of
dismissal, dismissing
the case without prejudice. [C.R. 69] However, the court vacated
the order of
dismissal during the hearing on Appellant's MSJ on August 22,
2013. [C.R. 71] The
court permitted a two-week period for Appellant to file a
response to Appellees
Notice of Non-Suit, stating that the court would rule on the
dismissal thereafter based
on the submitted arguments. [R.R. 29:11-13]
31. On August 21, 2013, Appellant filed Opposition 91212131 to
registration of
Appellee's application for "Timarron", S/N 85780484. [App. A,
p.2]
32. On Aug. 26, 2013, Appellant filed her Objection to Notice of
Nonsuit and
Motion to Strike. [C.R. 72]
33. On September 3, 2013, Appellee filed Plaintiffs Response to
Defendant
Mortions Objection to Plaintiffs Notice of Non-Suit and Motion
to Strike and
Plaintiffs Motion for Entry of Order of Dismissal Based on
Notice of Nonsuit filed
08/15/13 and Brief in Support. [C.R. 153]
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02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
34. On October 28, 2013, the court dismissed Appellant's counter
claims and
denied Appellants Motion for Summary Judgment. [C.R. 314]
35. On November 18, 2013, Appellant filed her Notice of Appeal.
[C.R. 316]
36. On December 11, 2013, Appellant moved for suspension of her
opposition
until the appeal on the instant case is concluded. [App. A,
p.62]
X. Summary of the Argument
37. Appellee asserts that Appellant's counter-claims for
declaratory action and
attorney fees are mere mirrors of Appellee's original claims, so
they are dismissed
pursuant to Rule 162 and case law, citing BHP Petroleum Co. v.
Millard, 800
S.W.2d 838 (Tex. 1990), Newman Oil Co. v. Alkek, 614 S.W.2d 653
(Tex.App.--
Corpus Christi 1981, writ ref'd n.r.e.), and Digital Imaging
Assocs. v. State, 176
S.W.3d 851 (Tex.App.--Houston [1st Dist.] 2005, no pet).
38. Appellant argues that TEX. R. CIV. PRO 162 allows
Appellant's counterclaim
for attorney fees to survive the dismissal, and also argues that
in the Second Court
of Appeals, her counterclaim for attorney fees is an affirmative
relief claim that
survives plaintiff's dismissal pursuant to controlling case law,
citing Falls County
v. Perkins & Cullum, 798 S.W.2d 868, (Tex.App.--Fort Worth,
no writ.).
39. Appellant additionally argues that her counter-claims are
more than mere
mirrors of Appellee's original claims, because she is currently
seeking registration
of her trademark in the USPTO, which has abated proceedings
until this dispute is
-
02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
adjudicated. Appellant argues that the registration of her
trademark and the
intertwined opposition proceedings are an affirmative relief
relying on this case, as
Appellee's own arguments state. [C.R. 144-152]
40. In all of Appellee's argument, never does Appellee address
why the two
pending trademark registrations and oppositions do not
constitute more than "mere
mirrors" of Appellee's original claims. In no way can this
complex case involving
ongoing trademark litigation be considered analogous to a
simple-minded attempt
to shoehorn attorneys fees into a case where such does not
belong.
41. Because other proceedings depend upon the outcome of
Appellant's claims,
and constitutes "true declaration controlling an ongoing and
continuing
relationship" as discussed in BHP Petroleum Co. v. Millard, 800
S.W.2d 838, 841
(Tex. 1990), case law does not support Appellee authority in
this case to
unilaterally terminate the suit in full. Tex. Mut. Ins. Co. v.
Ledbetter, 251 S.W.3d
31 (Tex. 2008).
42. Appellant reiterates that Declaratory Judgment is
appropriate in this case, as
her argument is distinguished from that of Appellee on at least
one note, in that the
parties' trademark registrations and oppositions, which have
been abated until the
adjudication of this case, constitutes an ongoing and continuing
relationship,
dependent upon the outcome of Appellants claims.
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02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
43. Furthermore, Appellant argues that the doctrine of estoppel
should have
been applied in this case, as Appellee should have been barred
from arguing
against its winning position at the federal level in this case,
as it argued that
adjudication of the case would assist the USPTO in its treatment
of the trademark
oppositions between the parties. As a result of Appellees
successful argument
abating the oppositions filed between the parties before the
USPTO, Appellant has
been unable to obtain her trademark. Appellee took a legal
position, benefitted
from it, and is thus estopped from changing his mind with the
court's blessing.
XI. Arguments
A. Appellants request for attorney fees pursuant to the Texas
Declaratory Act
is a claim for Affirmative Relief in the Second Court of
Appeals.
44. Appellee states that a defensive claim for attorney fees is
not an affirmative
claim for relief, citing Newman Oil Co. v. Alkek, 614 S.W.2d 653
(Tex.Civ.--
Corpus Christi 1981, writ ref'd n.r.e.), Digital Imaging Assocs.
v. State, 176
S.W.3d 851 (Tex.App.--Houston [1st Dist.] 2005, no pet.), and
several other cases
that are not controlling. [C.R. 62]
45. Appellee's arguments, written and oral, tends to
inappropriately blend the
absolute right to nonsuit his own claims as stated in Rule 162
with a right to
demand that a court dismiss all claims and the case in full.
[C.R. 62, 7]
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02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
46. In the Second Court of Appeals, however, a claim for
attorney fees pursuant
to the Texas Declaratory Act has been found to be an affirmative
claim for relief.
For example, in Falls County v. Perkins & Cullum, 798 S.W.2d
868, 871
(Tex.App.--Fort Worth 1990, no writ), Judge Spurlock explained
that several
courts have recognized that a claim for attorney fees under the
Declaratory Act is a
"claim for affirmative relief", and cited holdings from courts
all over the state,
including ECC Parkway Joint Venture v. Baldwin, 765 S.W.2d 504,
514
(Tex. App.--Dallas 1989, writ denied), J.C. Hadsell & Co.,
Inc. v. Allstate Ins.
Co., 516 S.W.2d 211, 213-14 (Tex.App.--Texarkana 1974, writ
dism'd w.o.j.), and
of course, the Second Court of Appeals in Page v. Page, 780
S.W.2d 1 (Tex.App.--
Fort Worth 1989, no writ). More recently, this holding remains
undisturbed,
including Noe v. McLendon, 2007 Tex. App. LEXIS 5708
(Tex.App.--Fort Worth
2007, no pet.).
47. In each of the cases cited above, an appeals court has
determined that a
claim for attorney fees pursuant to a declaratory action should
survive a nonsuit.
Appellee appears to enjoy making proclamations about its ability
to nonsuit at will,
which Appellant does not contest, but then confuse that with an
ability to eliminate
all claims against it by that nonsuit.
48. Case law in the Second Court of Appeals is clear - attorney
fees are a claim
for affirmative relief which survive a plaintiff's non-suit if
the adverse party's
-
02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
counterclaims are addressing more than merely a negative
position of plaintiff's
claims.
49. In the instant case, Appellee specifically is suing on
infringement of its
Texas-registered mark "Timarron" mentioned in Appellee's
Original Petition. [C.R.
5,6] However, Appellant sought a declaration that she was not
infringing any
mark held or owned by Appellee [C.R. 20, 7]. Appellee has more
than one
common law mark, currently owning two federal registrations and
a third for
which Appellee has filed but Appellant has opposed formally.
Therefore, if there
was any question about whether the counter-claims were merely
defensive, that
question was answered when Appellee filed additional federal
registrations.
B. Appellants request for Declaratory Relief is proper under the
Texas Declaratory Judgment Act
50. Appellee argues that Appellants cause of action for
declaratory relief is
improper under the Texas Declaratory Judgment Act in that
Appellants cause of
action for declaratory relief merely seeks to settle disputes
that were already
pending before the trial court in Appellees original claims.
51. Appellant argues that according to Rule 162, a dismissal by
a party does not
impact an adverse party's claim for affirmative relief or
attorney fees if the claim
has greater ramifications than found in the original suit.
52. While Appellee correctly argues that a defendant's claim for
declaratory
judgment which is a mere mirror of a plaintiff's claims is
terminated by the
-
02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
plaintiff's nonsuit, case law indicates clearly that "when a
declaratory judgment
counterclaim has greater ramifications than the original suit,
the court may allow
the counterclaim." Winslow v. Acker, 781 S.W.2d 322, 328, 1989
Tex.App.--San
Antonio 1989, writ denied), citing Placid Oil Co. v. Louisiana
Gas Intrastate, Inc.,
734 S.W.2d 1, 5 (Tex.App. -- Dallas 1987, writ ref'd
n.r.e.).
53. In Winslow, the counterclaim would settle an ongoing royalty
interest
dispute, so the appeals court determined that the counterclaim
had more than the
sole purpose of providing a vehicle to obtain attorney fees.
54. Appellee argues that the determination of greater
ramifications in relation
to a declaratory judgment claim depends upon the parties having
an ongoing and
continuing relationship, most commonly a contractual one. [C.R.
163, 19]
Appellant argues that the ongoing trademark disputes constitute
on ongoing and
continuing relationship.
55. In the case at bar, Appellant is attempting to obtain
federal registration of
her trademark [C.R. 79-83]. Appellee filed a suit to stop
Appellant from obtaining
her federal trademark registration [C.R. 96-102], and then asked
the USPTO to
suspend its proceedings in that opposition until the case at bar
is adjudicated [C.R.
110-114].
-
02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
56. In its arguments, Appellee argues the point it now argues
against, shown in
paragraph eight, copied from the document [C.R. 112].
57. To be fair, Appellant argued that this state case did not
have bearing on the
national case in front of the USPTO; after Appellant objected,
Appellee then
reiterated its argument:
58. Appellee goes on through this document, arguing exactly
opposite to what it
now states so emphatically in court:
-
02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
59. The USPTO was convinced by Appellee to suspend the
opposition. Having
had his cake at the USPTO, Appellee now wants to argue just the
opposite and ask
this Court let him eat his cake in this Court as well.
60. Appellant asked that the court take judicial notice of the
USPTO documents,
as they are readily available to the public on the USPTO's
online system. Appellant
previously asked the trial court to take judicial notice of
these files, and Appellee
did not object. [C.R. 76, 15] To assist the Court, the documents
filed in the two
oppositions are attached in Appendix A and B.
61. Appellee should be estopped from arguing against his winning
position at
the federal level in this case. Appellant had to pay a price for
Appellee's win, as
she has been unable to obtain her trademark; Appellee cannot now
say in this court
that its argument was wrong.
62. The USPTO's decision at the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board
is three
pages and worth reading in full. It grants the suspension,
concluding with the
statement that "the state court's determination regarding these
issues may provide
some persuasive insight with regard to opposer's claim of
priority and likelihood of
confusion asserted in this proceeding." [App. B, 12]
63. As the case law points out, and as Appellee has already
argued in this case,
the ramifications of this case extend beyond this particular
case. Appellant's
-
02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
counter-claims should remain alive, and be adjudicated in the
Court where
Appellee requested such and where so much work has already been
completed.
XII. Prayer
64. Appellant prays that this Court reverse the trial courts
ruling and judgment,
and remand the case back to the trial court for further
proceedings.
Respectfully submitted,
NORRED LAW, PLLC
By:
Warren V. Norred; TX Bar Number 24045094
200 E. Abram, Suite 300; Arlington, TX 76010;
P. 817.704.3984; F. 817.549.0161
Attorney for Appellant Barbara Louise Morton
d/b/a Timarron College Prep
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE BY COUNSEL - Pursuant to Tex. R. App.
Pro. 9.4, I
hereby certify that this Appellant's Brief contains 2958 words.
This is a computer-generated
document created in Microsoft Word, using 12 or 14-point
typeface for all text, except for footnotes
which are in 12-point typeface. In making this certificate of
compliance, I am relying on the word
count provided by the software used to prepare the document.
By:
Warren V. Norred; TX Bar Number 24045094
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE - A copy of this Appellants Brief was
served upon John Wilson, counsel for Appellee, via electronic
service (972-248-8088), pursuant to Rule 9.5 of Texas Rules of
Appellate Procedure on this day, February 4, 2013.
Warren V. Norred; Attorney for Appellant
-
02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
XIII. Appendix - The following documents are included in the
attached Appendix.
A. Documents constituting Opposition 91212131, filed by
Appellant to oppose Appellee's trademark application S/ N
85780484.
B. Documents constituting Opposition 91207557, filed by Appellee
to oppose Appellant's trademark application, S/N 85516680.
-
02-13-00409-CV, Appendix to Appellant's Brief (Morton)
CAUSE NO. 02-13-00409-CV
IN THE COURT OF APPEALS
FOR THE SECOND JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF TEXAS
FORT WORTH, TEXAS
Barbara Louise Morton d/b/a Timarron College Prep,
Appellant
V.
Timarron Owners Association, Inc.
Appellee
Trial Court Cause No. 096-260449-12
Hon. R. H. Wallace, Jr., Presiding Judge
APPENDIX IN SUPPORT OF APPELLANTS OPENING BRIEF
NORRED LAW, PLLC
Warren V. Norred
TX Bar Number 24045094
200 E. Abram, Suite 300
Arlington, TX 76010
P. 817.704.3984; F. 817.549.0161
Attorney for Appellant
-
Mark InformationMark Literal Elements: TIMARRON
Standard Character Claim: Yes. The mark consists of standard
characters without claim to any particular font style, size, or
color.
Mark Drawing Type: 4 - STANDARD CHARACTER MARK
Goods and ServicesNote: The following symbols indicate that the
registrant/owner has amended the goods/services:
Brackets [..] indicate deleted goods/services;Double parenthesis
((..)) identify any goods/services not claimed in a Section 15
affidavit ofAsterisks *..* identify additional (new) wording in the
goods/services.
For: Association services, namely, promoting the interests of
current homeowners and marketing to attract new homeowners;
Businessmanagement of homeowners associations for others; Homeowner
association services, namely, promoting the interests ofhomeowners
in a specific community and marketing the community nationwide to
prospective new residents and property owners
International Class(es): 035 - Primary Class U.S Class(es): 100,
101, 102Class Status: ACTIVE
Basis: 1(a)First Use: May 15, 1992 Use in Commerce: May 15,
1992
Basis Information (Case Level)Filed Use: Yes Currently Use: Yes
Amended Use: No
Filed ITU: No Currently ITU: No Amended ITU: No
Filed 44D: No Currently 44D: No Amended 44D: No
Filed 44E: No Currently 44E: No Amended 44E: No
Filed 66A: No Currently 66A: No
Filed No Basis: No Currently No Basis: No
Current Owner(s) InformationOwner Name: Timarron Owners
Association, Inc.
Owner Address: 700 Wentwood DriveSouthlake, TEXAS 76092UNITED
STATES
Legal Entity Type: CORPORATION State or Country
WhereOrganized:
TEXAS
Attorney/Correspondence InformationAttorney of Record
Attorney Name: John T. Wilson Docket Number: 11-002008-17
Attorney Primary EmailAddress:
[email protected] Attorney EmailAuthorized:
Yes
Correspondent
Generated on: This page was generated by TSDR on 2014-02-02
22:08:58 EST
Mark: TIMARRON
US Serial Number: 85780484 Application Filing Date: Nov. 15,
2012
Filed as TEAS Plus: Yes Currently TEAS Plus: Yes
Register: Principal
Mark Type: Service Mark
Status: An opposition after publication is pending at the
Trademark Trial and Appeal Board. For further information, see
TTABVUE on theTrademark Trial and Appeal Board web page.
Status Date: Aug. 21, 2013
Publication Date: Apr. 23, 2013
Appendix A, p. 1
-
CorrespondentName/Address:
JOHN T WILSONWILSON LEGAL GROUP PC16610 DALLAS PKWY STE
1000DALLAS, TEXAS 75248-6802UNITED STATES
Phone: 9722488080 Fax: 9722488088
Correspondent e-mail: [email protected]
[email protected] [email protected]
[email protected]
Correspondent e-mailAuthorized:
Yes
Domestic Representative - Not Found
Prosecution History
Date Description ProceedingNumber
Aug. 21, 2013 OPPOSITION INSTITUTED NO. 999999 212131May 21,
2013 EXTENSION OF TIME TO OPPOSE RECEIVEDApr. 23, 2013 OFFICIAL
GAZETTE PUBLICATION CONFIRMATION E-MAILEDApr. 23, 2013 PUBLISHED
FOR OPPOSITIONApr. 03, 2013 NOTIFICATION OF NOTICE OF PUBLICATION
E-MAILEDMar. 12, 2013 APPROVED FOR PUB - PRINCIPAL REGISTERMar. 11,
2013 ASSIGNED TO EXAMINER 83280Nov. 23, 2012 NEW APPLICATION OFFICE
SUPPLIED DATA ENTERED IN TRAMNov. 19, 2012 NEW APPLICATION ENTERED
IN TRAM
TM Staff and Location InformationTM Staff Information
TM Attorney: KAJUBI, ELIZABETH N Law Office Assigned: LAW OFFICE
107File Location
Current Location: PUBLICATION AND ISSUE SECTION Date in
Location: Mar. 18, 2013
ProceedingsSummary
Number of Proceedings: 2Type of Proceeding: Opposition
Proceeding Number: 91212131 Filing Date: Aug 21, 2013
Status: Pending Status Date: Aug 21, 2013
Interlocutory Attorney: GEORGE POLOGEORGISDefendant
Name: Timarron Owners Association, Inc.
Correspondent Address: JOHN T WILSONWILSON LEGAL GROUP PC16610
DALLAS PKWY STE 1000DALLAS TX , 75248-6802UNITED STATES
Correspondent e-mail: [email protected] ,
[email protected] , [email protected] ,
[email protected] , [email protected]
Associated marks
Mark Application Status SerialNumberRegistrationNumber
TIMARRON Opposition Pending 85780484Plaintiff(s)
Name: Barbara Morton
Correspondent Address: WARREN V NORREDNORRED LAW PLLC200 E ABRAM
STE 300ARLINGTON TX , 76001UNITED STATES
Correspondent e-mail: [email protected]
History
Entry
Appendix A, p. 2
-
Number History Text Date Due Date
1 FILED AND FEE Aug 21, 20132 NOTICE AND TRIAL DATES SENT;
ANSWER DUE: Aug 21, 2013 Sep 30, 20133 PENDING, INSTITUTED Aug 21,
20134 ANSWER Sep 30, 20135 P MOT TO SUSP PEND DISP CIV ACTION Dec
11, 20136 D OPP TO SUSP; X-MOT TO CONSOLIDATE Dec 20, 2013
Type of Proceeding: Extension of TimeProceeding Number: 85780484
Filing Date: May 21, 2013
Status: Terminated Status Date: Aug 21, 2013
Interlocutory Attorney:Defendant
Name: Timarron Owners Association, Inc.
Correspondent Address: JOHN T. WILSONWILSON LEGAL GROUP, PC16610
DALLAS PKWY STE 1000DALLAS TX , 75248-6802UNITED STATES
Associated marks
Mark Application Status SerialNumberRegistrationNumber
TIMARRON Opposition Pending 85780484Potential Opposer(s)
Name: BarbaraMorton
Correspondent Address: Warren V. NorredNorred Law, PLLC200 E.
Abram, Suite 300Arlington TX , 76010UNITED STATES
Correspondent e-mail: [email protected] marks
Mark Application Status Serial Number RegistrationNumber
Prosecution HistoryEntryNumber History Text Date Due Date
1 INCOMING - EXT TIME TO OPPOSE FILED May 21, 20132 EXTENSION OF
TIME GRANTED May 21, 2013
Appendix A, p. 3
-
Trademark Trial and Appeal Board Electronic Filing System.
http://estta.uspto.govESTTA Tracking number: ESTTA578147
Filing date: 12/20/2013IN THE UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK
OFFICE
BEFORE THE TRADEMARK TRIAL AND APPEAL BOARDProceeding
91212131Party Defendant
Timarron Owners Association, Inc.CorrespondenceAddress
JOHN T WILSONWILSON LEGAL GROUP PC16610 DALLAS PKWY SUITE
1000DALLAS, TX 75248-6802UNITED [email protected],
[email protected],[email protected],
[email protected],[email protected]
Submission Other Motions/PapersFiler's Name John T.
WilsonFiler's e-mail [email protected],
[email protected] /s/ John T. WilsonDate
12/20/2013Attachments Pages from Applicant's Response to Opposer's
Mtn to Suspend.pdf(5258256
bytes )Exhibit A.pdf(1848339 bytes )Exhibit B.pdf(4310846 bytes
)Exhibit C.pdf(1867138 bytes )Exhibit D.pdf(487279 bytes )Exhibit
E.pdf(1900833 bytes )
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Trademark Trial and Appeal Board Electronic Filing System.
http://estta.uspto.govESTTA Tracking number: ESTTA575749
Filing date: 12/11/2013IN THE UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK
OFFICE
BEFORE THE TRADEMARK TRIAL AND APPEAL BOARDProceeding
91212131Party Plaintiff
Barbara MortonCorrespondenceAddress
WARREN V NORREDNORRED LAW PLLC200 E ABRAM, SUITE 300ARLINGTON,
TX 76001UNITED [email protected]
Submission Motion to Suspend for Civil ActionFiler's Name
Warrren V. NorredFiler's e-mail [email protected]
/Warren V. Norred/Date 12/11/2013Attachments
2013_12_11-MortonMotionToAbateA.pdf(3077840 bytes )
Appendix A, p. 62
-
Applicant's Objection to Motion to Suspend Opposition Page 1
IN THE UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
BEFORE THE TRADEMARK TRIAL AND APPEAL BOARD
BARBARA MORTON
Opposer Opposition No: 91212131
v. Mark: TIMARRON
TIMARRON OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. In re Trademark No:
85780484
Applicant.
OPPOSER'S MOTION TO SUSPEND OPPOSITION PURSUANT TO 37 CFR
2.117
Opposer, BARBARA MORTION, dba TIMARRON OWNERS ASSOCIATION,
INC.,
submits this Motion to Suspend Opposition ("Motion"), pursuant
to 37 C.F.R. 2.117.
I. Procedural Background
1. Opposer is Barbara Morton, dba Timarron College Prep;
Applicant is Timarron Owners
Association, Inc. ("TOA'').
2. On August 21, 2013, Opposer Mortonn filed Opposition No.
91212131 against Applicant
TOA, who filed application 85780484, seeking registration for
the word mark "TIMARRON" in
class 35, described as:
"Association services, namely, promoting the interests of
current homeowners and marketing
to attract new homeowners; Business management of homeowners
associations for others;
Homeowner association services, namely, promoting the interests
of homeowners in a
specific community and marketing the community nationwide to
prospective new residents
and property owners."
3. In addition to the application and opposition already
discussed infra, Morton filed to register
the word mark "TIMARRON COLLEGE PREP" in application 8551680, to
which Applicant
TOA has filed Opposition No. 91207557.
4. In the state case filed in Tarrant County District Court in
Texas as Cause No. 096-260449-12,
Applicant TOA sued Opposer Morton, alleging Trademark
Infringement and associated claims
Appendix A, p. 63
-
Applicant's Objection to Motion to Suspend Opposition Page 2
concerning the "TIMARRON" mark and seeking to restrain Morton's
use of "TIMARRON
COLLEGE PREP".
5. After Applicant TOA filed its suit for infringement and filed
its opposition to Morton's
application for "TIMARRON COLLEGE PREP", Applicant requested
that its opposition be
suspended until the state action was final, which the Board
granted. Applicant's Motion to
Suspend is attached as Exhibit A, which also includes TOA's
Original Petition for trademark
infringement and Morton's Answer.
6. In the state action, Morton filed a motion for summary
judgment, attached as Exhibit B and
incorporated in full herein. A week prior to the hearing set on
the motion, TOA dismissed its
claims, ostensibly understanding that it was about to lose and
not wishing to see the matter fully
and finally litigated, and resolved against it. The trial court
allowed the case in full to be
dismissed, dismissing Morton's counterclaims, which would be of
use in these proceedings. That
action remains active in the Second Court of Appeals as
02-13-00409-CV; docket on the appeal
is publicly available and kept current at the following URL
where the Board may freely view it:
http://www.search.txcourts.gov/Case.aspx?cn=02-13-00409-CV.
7. Though Morton objected to the abatement initially in her own
proceedings, this Board
decided to suspend the opposition action in her application
seeking to register "TIMARRON
COLLEGE PREP" and significant work at the state level regarding
the dispute has occurred.
8. Under the same reasoning employed by the Board to suspend
action in the opposition to
Morton's application 8551680, Morton now asks the Board to
suspend the opposition at bar
pursuant to 37 CFR 2.117, as the resolution of the state action
will have significant bearing on
the outcome of this proceeding.
Appendix A, p. 64
-
Applicant's Objection to Motion to Suspend Opposition Page 3
II. Prayer
WHEREFORE, Morton respectfully requests that the Board grant the
Motion and
suspend Opposition No. 91212131until the state case is
final.
Respectfully submitted,
By: /Warren V. Norred/
Warren V. Norred, Texas Bar No. 24045094
200 E. Abram, suite 300, Arlington, TX 76001
Tel. (817) 704-3984, Fax. (817) 549-0161
Attorney for PLAINTIFFs
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE - I certify that on December 11, 2013, a
true and correct copy
of this Motion to Suspend was served by fax to John Wilson at
972.248.8088.
Warren V. Norred
Appendix A, p. 65
-
Applicant's Objection to Motion to Suspend Opposition
IN THE UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
BEFORE THE TRADEMARK TRIAL AND APPEAL BOARD
BARBARA MORTON
Opposer Opposition No: 91212131
v. Mark: TIMARRON
TIMARRON OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. In re Trademark No:
85780484
Applicant.
EXHIBIT A
MOTION TO SUSPEND FOR CIVIL ACTION
IN RELATED OPPOSITION 91207557
Exh. A, p. 1Appendix A, p. 66
-
Trademark Trial and Appeal Board Electronic Filing System.
http://estta.uspto.govESTTA Tracking number: ESTTA1475
Filing date: 06/12/2013IN THE UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK
OFFICE
BEFORE THE TRADEMARK TRIAL AND APPEAL BOARDProceeding
91207557Party Plaintiff
Timarron Owners Association, Inc.CorrespondenceAddress
JOHN T WILSONWILSON LEGAL GROUP PC16610 DALLAS PARKWAY
2000DALLAS, TX 75248UNITED [email protected],
[email protected],[email protected],
[email protected]
Submission Motion to Suspend for Civil ActionFiler's Name John
T. WilsonFiler's e-mail [email protected],
[email protected] /John T. Wilson/Date
06/12/2013Attachments Opposer's Motion to Suspend Opposition
6.12.13.pdf(5602720 bytes )
Exh. A, p. 2Appendix A, p. 67
-
IN THE UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE BEFORE THE
TRADEMARK TRIAL AND APPEAL BOARD
In the matter of trademark Serial No.: 85/516680 Mark: TIMARRON
COLLEGE PREP Published in the Official Gazette on October 16,
2012
TIMARRON OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC Opposer,
v.
TIMARRON COLLEGE PREP Applicant.
Opposition No. 91207557
MOTION TO SUSPEND OPPOSITION PURSUANT TO 37 C.F.R. 2.117
Opposer files this Motion to Suspend Opposition Pursuant to 37
C.F. R. 2.117, as
authorized by Title 37 2.117 of the U.S. CODE OF FEDERAL
REGULATIONS.
I. Procedural Background
1. Opposer is Timarron Owners Association, Inc. ("TOA'') ;
Applicant is Timarron
College Prep ("TCP").
2. On or about October 18, 2012, Opposer filed its Notice of
Opposition against
Applicant, in light of Opposer's superior rights in and to
"TIMARRON," and in light of
Applicant's seeking to register the word mark TIMARRON COLLEGE
PREP as a trademark for
"after school tutoring programs" and "education services" in
International Class 041.
3. On or about July 26, 2012, Opposer filed its Original
Petition in Timarron
Owners Association, Inc. v Barbara Louise Morton d/b/a College
Prep; Cause No. 096-260449-
12, pending in the District Court of the 96th Judicial District
of Tarrant County Texas (the "Civil
Lawsuit") alleging claims of Trademark Infringement, Unjust
Enrichment, Tortious Interference,
MOTION TO SUSPEND OPPOSITION PAGEl
Exh. A, p. 3Appendix A, p. 68
-
and Unfair Competition as they pertain to the TIMARRON mark, and
seeking inter alia, for the
Court to restrain TCP from trading off of the good will and
reputation of TOA's TIMARRON
mark. A true and correct copy of said Original Petition is
attached hereto as "Exhibit 1" and is
incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.
4. On or about September 7, 2012, TCP filed its Original Answer
and Counterclaim
in the Civil Lawsuit. A true and correct copy of said Original
Answer and Counterclaim is
attached hereto as "Exhibit 2" and is incorporated by reference
as if fully set forth herein.
5. On or about October 11 , 2012, TOA filed its Original Answer
and Special
Exceptions to Defendant/Counter-Plaintiffs Original
Counterclaim.
6. The Civil Lawsuit is currently in the discovery stage of
litigation.
II. Arguments & Authorities
7. 37 C.F.R. 2.117(a) states:
Whenever it shall come to the attention of the Trademark Trial
and Appeal Board that a party or parties to a pending case are
engaged in a civil action or another Board proceeding which may
have a bearing on the case, proceedings before the Board may be
suspended until termination of the civil action or the other Board
proceeding.
8. Accordingly, Timarron Owners Association, Inc. respectfully
requests that this
Board suspend this action in light of the Civil Lawsuit for the
reason that the Civil Lawsuit,
because it includes a cause of action for trademark infringement
related to the Mark and seeks
declaratory relief determining the owner of the Mark, is likely
to have a substantial bearing on
the outcome of this proceeding.
MOTION TO SUSPEND OPPOSITION PAGE2
Exh. A, p. 4Appendix A, p. 69
-
B. Conclusion
For these reasons, because of the Civil Lawsuit in which
Timarron Owners Association,
Inc. and Timarron College Prep are currently engaged, Timarron
Owners Association asks The
Trademark Trial and Appeal Board to suspend this opposition
proceeding pending the resolution
ofthe Civil Lawsuit.
DATED: June 12,2013.
MOTION TO SUSPEND OPPOSITION
Respectfully submitted, WILSON LEGAL GROUP P.C.
By: Is/John T. Wilson John T. Wilson State Bar No. 24008284
Kandace D. Walter State Bar No. 24047068 16610 Dallas Parkway,
Suite 2000 Dallas, Texas 75248 (T) 972.248.8080; (F)
972.248.8088;
ATTORNEYS FOR OPPOSER TIMARRON OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
PAGE3
Exh. A, p. 5Appendix A, p. 70
-
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
This is to certify that a true and correct copy of the above
Motion has been served upon
Opposer, by and through its counsel of record, pursuant to Rules
of Federal Civil Procedure on
June 12, 2013.
Mark W. Handley Handley Law Firm, PLLC P.O. Box 97 Grapevine,
Texas 76099-0097 Facsimile: (972) 518-1777
MOTION TO SUSPEND OPPOSITION
Warren V. Norred 200 E. Abram Suite 300 Arlington, TX 76001
Facsimile: (817) 549-0161
Is/John T. Wilson John T. Wilson
PAGE4
Exh. A, p. 6Appendix A, p. 71
-
"EXHIBIT 1"
Exh. A, p. 7Appendix A, p. 72
-
TIMARRON OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
Plaintiff,
v.
BARBARA LOUISE MORTON D/B/A TIMARRON COLLEGE PREP
Defendants.
IN THE DISTRICT COURT
\'--" C\\0. JUDICIAL DISTRICT
TARRANT COUNTY, TEXAS
PLAINTIFF TIMARRON OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.'S ORIGINAL
PETITION
TO THE HONORABLE JUDGE OF SAID COURT:
COMES NOW Plaintiff TIMARRON OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. and files
this
Original Petition against BARBARA LOUISE MORTON DIBIA TIMARRON
COLLEGE
PREP (the "Petition"), and in support of said Petition avers the
following:
I. DISCOVERY CONTROL PLAN
1. Plaintiff intends to conduct discovery under Level2 of the
TEXAS RULE OF CNrr..
PROCEDURE 190.3/190.4.
II. VENUE AND JURISDICTION
2. Plaintiff TIMARRON OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. ("TIMARRON") is
a
Texas corporation whose principal place of business is located
in Tarrant County, Texas.
3. Defendant BARBARA LOUISE MORTON D/B/A TIMARRON COLLEGE
PREP ("MORTON") is an individual who resides and may be served
at 476 Cherokee Ct. S.,
Keller, Texas 76248 or wherever else she may be found. .. . .._
'~
PLAINTIFF TIMARRON OWNER'S ASSOCIATION ORIGINAL PETITION
Exh. A, p. 8Appendix A, p. 73
-
4. This Court has jurisdiction over this matter because the
amount in controversy is
within the jurisdictional limits of the Court.
5. Venue is appropriate in Tarrant County in that all or
substantially all of the acts
and/or omissions that form the basis of this suit occurred in
Tarrant County, Texas.
III. FACTUAL BACKGROUND
6. TIMARRON is the owner of a trademark, specifically, Texas
Trademark
Registration No. 800205842 (the "Mark"). A true and correct copy
of the Texas Secretary of
State' s Record for the Mark and the Assignment of said Mark to
TIMARRON is attached hereto
as "Exhibit A" and is incorporated by reference as if fully set
forth herein.
7. The Mark was first used in commerce as early as the
Declaration of Covenants,
Conditions, and Restrictions for TIMARRON, dated May 15,
1992.
8. MORTON has been using the Mark in connection with its
promotions,
advertisements, websites, and operations without TIMARRON' s
authorization or permission.
9. MORTON' s unauthorized use of the Mark has caused consumers
to erroneously
believe that MORTON is sponsored by, connected to, and/or
otherwise affiliated with
TIMARRON.
10. MORTON's unauthorized use of the Mark has caused consumers
to erroneously
believe that MORTON's goods and/or services are sponsored by,
connected to, and/or otherwise
affiliated with TIMARRON.
11. MORTON' s unauthorized use of the Mark has caused consumers
to erroneously
believe that MORTON's websites, including, but not limited to,
www.timarroncollegeprep.com,
are sponsored by, connected to, and/or otherwise affiliated with
TIMARRON.
P LAINTIFF TIMARRON OWNER'S ASSOCIATION ORIGINAL PETITION
PAGE2
Exh. A, p. 9Appendix A, p. 74
-
12. MORTON has purposely used the Mark to cause confusion in the
marketplace
with regard to the sponsorship, approval, and/or affiliation of
MORTON's goods and/or services
with TIMARRON.
13. MORTON has intentionally and fraudulently held her goods
and/or services out
to be the products of TIMARRON.
14. MORTON's promotion, advertisement, and/or operation under
the Mark has
tortuously interfered with TIMARRON's ability to consummate
sales with customers who are
attempting to purchase products sponsored by, approved by,
and/or otherwise connected with
TIMARRON.
15. On or about January 18, 201:2, counsel for TIMARRON issued a
cease and desist
letter to MORTON directing her to stop her promotion,
advertisement, and operation under the
Mark and any other unauthorized use of the Mark (the "C&D
Letter") . A true and correct copy
of said C&D Letter is attached hereto as "Exhibit B" and is
incorporated by reference as if fully
set forth herein.
16. Despite receiving the C&D Letter, MORTON has continued
her unauthorized use
of the Mark and sale of goods bearing the Mark.
17. MORTON has sold goods bearing the Mark and/or promoted
herself, advertised
herself, and/or operated under the Mark in the State of Texas,
including, but not limited to, in
Tarrant County.
IV. SUMMARY OF CAUSES OF ACTION
18. This suit is for the following causes of action against
MORTON: i) Trademark
Infringement Under TEXAS BUSINESS AND COMMERCE CODE 16.26; ii)
Unjust Enrichment; iii)
Tortious Interference with Prospective Business Relations; and,
iv) Unfair Competition.
PLAINTIFF T IMARRON OWNER'S ASSOCIATION ORIGINAL PETITION
PAGE3
Exh. A, p. 10Appendix A, p. 75
-
V. CAUSES OF ACTION
19. TIMARRON hereby reincorporates paragraphs 1 through 18 in
accordance with
TEXAS RULE OF CIVIL PROCEDURE 58.
TRADEMARK INFRINGEMENT UNDER TEXAS BUSINESS AND COMMERCE CODE
16.26
20. TIMARRON owns the Mark, registered under Chapter 16 of the
TEXAS BUSINESS
AND COMMERCE CODE.
21. MORTON, without TIMARRON's consent, authorization, or
permission, used
and continues to use the Mark and/or a colorable imitation of
the Mark in connection with the
selling and offering for sale of goods and/or services in the
State of Texas when such use was
and is likely to deceive and/or cause confusion and/or mistake
as to the source or origin of said
goods.
22. TIMARRON has been damaged by MORTON's unauthorized use of
the Mark.
23. Pursuant to TBCC 16.26(c), TIMARRON is entitled to have
MORTON enjoined
from using the Mark in the State of Texas.
24. Pursuant to TBCC 16.26(d), TIMARRON is entitled to recover
all damages
caused by MORTON's unauthorized use of the Mark since at least
the date ofthe C&D Letter,
when MORTON had constructive notice ofTIMARRON's ownership of
the Mark.
UNJUST ENRICHMENT
25. TIMARRON owns the Mark, constituting a valuable, proprietary
resource.
26. MORTON unlawfully misappropriated and traded upon the Mark
for use in her
own proprietary endeavors.
27. MORTON has been unjustly enriched by her unlawful
misappropriation and use
ofthe Mark, to TIMARRON's detriment.
PLAINTIFF TIMARRON OWNER'S ASSOCJATION ORIGlNALPETJTlON
PAGE4
Exh. A, p. 11Appendix A, p. 76
-
28. TIMARRON is entitled to recover all valuable considerations
MORTON has
gained by her unlawful misappropriation and use of the Mark.
TORTIOUS INTERFERENCE WITH PROSPECTIVE BUSINESS RELATIONS
29. TIMARRON, through its use of its Mark, was reasonably likely
to enter in
business relations with consumers.
30. MORTON, by her continued, unauthorized use of the Mark after
receiving notice
of TIMARRON's ownership thereof through the C&D Letter,
intentionally interfered with
TIMARRON' s prospective business relations by diluting the Mark
and creating confusion about
the Mark in the market.
31 . MORTON's unauthorized use of the Mark was and is tortious
and unlawful.
32. MORTON's tortious interference has caused injury to TIMARRON
by diluting
the Mark and creating confusion about the Mark in the market,
directly and detrimentally
impacting TIMARRON's ability to consummate business relations
with consumers.
UNFAIR COMPETITION
33. TIMARRON owns the Mark, constituting a valuable trade
resource.
34. TIMARRON has developed goodwill associated with the Mark
35. MORTON unlawfully misappropriated the Mark and traded upon
the goodwill
developed therein in furtherance of her own commercial goals and
to the detriment of
TIMARRON' s commercial endeavors.
36. MORTON's unlawful use ofthe Mark has caused TIMARRON
injury.
VI. DEMAND FOR ACCOUNTING, REQUEST FOR TURN OVE~ AND REQUEST TO
HOLD HARMLESS
31. Pursuant to TBCC 16.26, TIMARRON demands an accounting of
MORTON's
sales resulting from MORTON's unlawful use of the Mark and/or
sales involving MORTON's
PLAINTIFF TIMARRON OWNER'S ASSOCIATION ORIGINAL PETITION
PAGES
Exh. A, p. 12Appendix A, p. 77
-
goods bearing the Mark and/or services sold under the Mark.
TIMARRON requests that, after
such accounting, all MORTON's profits from such sales,
particularly those sales occurring after
the C&D Letter had been received and notice ofTIMARRON's
ownership of the Mark given, be
paid to TIMARRON. TIMARRON further requests all goods and
advertisements bearing the
Mark in MORTON's possession be turned over to TIMARRON and/or
destroyed as the Court
deems proper.
32. TIMARRON requests the Court order MORTON to indemnifY and
hold harmless
TIMARRON against any and all possible claims of third parties
arising out of the sale, offer of
sale, distribution or use of MORTON's goods bearing the Mark or
that bear confusingly similar
designs to the Mark or otherwise based on or incorporating
TIMARRON' s Mark. TJMARRON
further requests the Court order MORTON to identifY vendors or
resellers used to produce or sell
their infiinging goods.
VII. APPLICATION FOR TEMPORARY RESTRAINING ORDER
33. Because of MORTON's unauthorized use of the Mark, MORTON
has
undermined TIMARRON's business by selling goods and/or products
that bear the Mark and/or
confusingly similar designs and/or by falsely representing the
goods produced and/or sold by
MORTON have the sponsorship ofTIMARRON.
34. MORTON's sale of goods and/or products bearing the Mark
and/or confusingly
similar designs have caused and continue to cause TIMARRON
irreparable harm for which there
is no adequate remedy at law.
35. Since TIMARRON can readily establish itself as owner of the
Mark,
TIMARRON is likely to succeed on the merits of the case
prohibiting MORTON's unauthorized
use of the Mark and confusingly similar designs.
PLAINTIFF TIMARRON OWNER'S ASSOCIATION ORIGINAL PETITION
PAGE6
Exh. A, p. 13Appendix A, p. 78
-
36. The injury faced by TIMARRON outweighs the injury that would
be sustained by
enjoining MORTON from her unauthorized use of the Mark and
related stylistic designs.
37. Furthermore, the Court's granting of a temporary restraining
order against
MORTON's use of the Mark and confusingly similar designs would
not adversely affect public
policy or public interest.
38. TIMARRON respectfully demands that MORTON be restrained from
selling any
goods and/or products containing either the Marks and/or
confusingly similar designs. If
necessary, TIMARRON is willing to post a bond in order for the
Court to issue the temporary
restraining order against MORTON.
VIII. ATTORNEY'S FEES
39. Because of the conduct of MORTON, TIMARRON has been
compelled to
engage the services of an attorney to prosecute this action. As
a result, TIMARRON is entitled
to recover both jointly and severally from MORTON a reasonable
sum for the necessary services
of Wilson Legal Group, P .C. in the preparation and trial of
this action and for any appeals related
thereto.
IX. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT
40. All conditions precedent to Plaintiff's causes of action
have been performed
and/or have occurred.
X. RULE 194 REQUEST FOR DISCLOSURE
41. Pursuant to Rule 194 of the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure,
MORTON is
requested to disclose within fifty (SO) days after service of
this request, the information or
material described in Rule 194 of the Texas Rules of Civil
Procedure. The originals or copies of
documents and other tangible items requested must be produced
for inspection and copying at
PLAINTIFF T IMARRON OWNER'S ASSOCIATION ORIGINAL PETITION
PAGE7
Exh. A, p. 14Appendix A, p. 79
-
Wilson Legal Group P.C., 16610 Dallas Parkway, Suite 2000,
Dallas, Texas 75248 together with
a written response. Each written response must be preceded by
the request to which it applies.
No objection or assertion of work product privilege is permitted
to a request under this rule.
XI. PRAYER FOR RELIEF
WHEREFORE, PREMISES CONSIDERED, Plaintiff TIMARRON OWNERS
ASSOCIATION, INC., respectfully requests:
a. That judgment be entered in favor of Plaintiff against
Defendant BARBARA
LOUISE MORTON D/B/A TIMARRON COLLEGE PREP for actual damages
in
an amount in excess of the minimum jurisdictional limits of the
Court as can be
shown;
b. An award of Plaintiffs actual and special damages as pleaded
within the
jurisdictional limits of the Court;
c. An award to Plaintiff of Defendant's ill-gotten profits;
d. An award of Plaintiff's court costs in an amount to be
determined by the Court;
e. An award of Plaintiff's reasonable and necessary attorneys'
fees;
f. That Plaintiff recover pre-judgment and post-judgment
interest on all sums
awarded at the highest rate permitted by law; and
g. An award to TIMARRON for such further relief, at law or in
equity, to which it is
justly entitled.
PLAINTIFF T!MARRON OWNER'S ASSOCIATION ORIGINAL PETITION
PAGES
Exh. A, p. 15Appendix A, p. 80
-
DATED: July 26,2012.
Respectfully submitted, WILSON LEGAL GROUP P.C.
By: /s/.John T. Wilson John T. Wilson State Bar No. 24008284
Kandace D. Walter State Bar No. 24047068 16610 Dallas Parkway,
Suite 2000 Dallas, Texas 75248 (T) 972.248.8080; (F)
972.248.8088;
ATTORNEYSFORTIMARRON OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
PLAINTIFF TIMARRON OWNER'S ASSOCIATION ORIGINAL P ETITION
PAGE9
Exh. A, p. 16Appendix A, p. 81
-
. .
"EXHIBIT A"
Exh. A, p. 17Appendix A, p. 82
-
TRADEMARK INQUIRY - VIEW TRADEMARK ' . Page 1 of 1
TEXAS SECRETARY of STATE HOPE ANDRADE
UCC 1 Business Organizations I Trademarks I Notary I Account I
HelpfFees I Briefcase I Logout TRADEMARK INQUIRY -VIEW
TRADEMARK
Registration Number: Status: Classification:
Word Description: . Disclaimer:
800205842 Registered Insurance & Financial: Class 36
TIMARRON N/A
Registration Date: Date of Expiration: Design Code:
July 18, 2003 July 18, 2013 031702
REGISTRANTS FILING HISTORY CLASSIFICAT ION
Last Update May 21.2003
Name Timarron Owners Association, Inc.
I Return to Search J l- --- --------- - --
Address 700 Wentwood Drive Southlake , TX 76092 USA
I l
__I
https://directsos.state.tx. us/tm _inquiry/tm
_inquiry-trademark.asp?spage=reg&:Sregistratio. ..
7/17/2012
Exh. A, p. 18Appendix A, p. 83
-
ASSIGNMENT OF ~GlSTRATION OF A TRADEMARK/SERVICE MARK
FILED In the Office of the
Secretary of State of Texas
To: Office of the Secretary of State Corporations Section P. 0.
Box 13697 Austin, Texas 78711-3697
Asillgnor: Westerra Timarron L.P.
Address: 13155 Noel Road-LB54, Suite 700
City: Dallas State:
Registration No. 800205842
. ~ssigoee: Timarron Owners Association, Jnr . 700 Wentwood
Drive Southlake, Texas 76092
Texas
.FEB 16 2010 Corporations Section
Zip: 75240
"Date of-Registration: May 21, 2003
Except as hereinafter provided, Assignor assigns to Assignee all
right, title and interest in a~d to tbe above referenced mark and
its registratio-.., together with the good will of the business
with whicb the mark is used, or that part of tb~ good will
connected with the use of, and symbolized by, the mark. Assignor
reserves the rig~t to continue to u~e this mark in its name and for
the limited purpose of marketing, promotion~ adver!lsement;
djstribution, lease or sale of Assignor's products and
services.
Date: \-8 "'l0
f/misc/assignmentoftegistrationoftradcmilrk. westerra-timarron .
... J
Exh. A, p. 19Appendix A, p. 84
-
"EXHIBIT B"
Exh. A, p. 20Appendix A, p. 85
-
WILSON LEGAL GROUP P.C. 16610 Dallas Parlrway Suite 2000 Dallas,
Texas 75248
Telephone 972.248.8080 Facsimile 972.248.8088
Attomeys & Counselors at Law
John T. Wilson E-mail: [email protected]
Barbara Morton Timan-on College Prep 630 E. Southlake Blvd.,
Suite 111 Southlake, Texas 76092
Barbara Morton Timarron College Prep 251 E. Southlake Blvd.,
Suite 110 Southlake, Texas 76092
Barbara Morton Timarron College Prep 251 S. Main Street, Suite
101 KelJer, Texas 76248
-v.w.w.ilsonlegalgroup.com
January 18, 2012
(Via Certified Mail, Return Receipt Requested No.
7010-1870-0001-6973-3232 and Regular First Class Mail)
(Via Certified Mail, Return Receipt Requested No.
7010-1870-0001-6973-3249 and Regular First Class Mail)
(Via Certified Mail, Return Receipt Requested No.
7010-2000-0002-7331-9860 and Regular First Class Mail)
Re: CEASE AND DESIST NOTICE
To Whom it May Concern:
Please be advised that this firm represents Timarron Owners
Association, Inc. (hereinafter the "HOA"). As you may know,
"Timarron" (hereinafter the "Mark") is a state registered trademark
(Registration No. 800205842) of the HOA and the use of the Mark,
without our client's express consent, is a violation of state and
federal trademark laws under which the Mark is protected.
Your promotion, advertisement, and operation under the Mark
constitutes an infringement of the HOA's common law, state, and
federal trademark rights. Consumers, retailers, wholesalers, real
estate professionals, and the public at large will be and probably
have already been misled into believing that you are affiliated
with our client, that you are approved, sponsored or supplied by
it, or the reverse.
ACCORDINGLY, TAKE NOTICE THAT YOUR ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED TO
IMMEDIATELY CEASE AND DESIST THE USE OF THE MARK AND ALL
CONFUSINGLY SIMILAR VARIA TJONS OF THE MARK.
Exh. A, p. 21Appendix A, p. 86
-
Cease and Desist Notice January 18, 2012 Page 2 of2
Under the circumstances, we demand that you immediately cease
and desist all further promotion, advertisement, and operation
under the name Timarron or any variation of the Mark. In
particular, we demand that you do not display any signage,
distribute any literature, promotional items, or in any other way
advertise the name Tirnarron in print or on the internet.
We wish to receive your assurances in writing by noon on January
25, 2012, that you will comply with the above cease and desist
demand. If you fail to advise us by then that you will not promote,
advertise, or operate your business under the name Timarron, or any
variations of the Mark, our client shall, without further notice to
you, take such steps as may be necessary to assert its statutory
rights to recover profits, damages, and costs thereof: attorney's
fees, and otherwise to protect its interests.
This is a serious matter that requires your immediate attention.
I urge you to handle this matter accordingly.
cc: Via Electronic Mail Client
Sincerely yours, WILSON LEGAL GROUP P.C .
.. ,~~:::-
Exh. A, p. 22Appendix A, p. 87
-
"EXHIBIT 2"
Exh. A, p. 23Appendix A, p. 88
-
Cause No. 096-260449-12
TIMARRON OWNERS ASSOC., INC. Plaintiff,
IN THE DISTRICT COURT
v.
96TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT
BARBARA LOUISE MORTON D/B/A/ TIMARRON COLLEGE PREP
Defendant.
TARRANT COUNTY, TEXAS
DEFENDANT MORTON'S ORIGINAL ANSWER, COUNTERCLAIMS, and MOTION TO
TRANSFER
NOW COMES Defendant BARBARA LOUIS MORTON, files this Original
Answer in
the above-styled and numbered cause, denying Plaintiffs claims,
asking the Court for a
declaration that Defendant is not infringing any common law
trademark claimed by Plaintiff, and
once the declaration is established, a transfer to Travis County
District Court so that Defendant
may seek cancellation of the Texas-registered trademark of
TIMARRON OWNERS
ASSOCIATION, INC, and would show the following:
I. PARTY VERIFICATION
I. Defendant/Counter-Plaintiff, BARBARA MORTON, is an individual
residing in Tarrant
County, Texas, and may be contacted through her attorney of
record, Warren Norred.
2. PlaintiffTIMARRON OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. has already
appeared in this suit.
II. JURISDICTION AND VENUE
3. The subject matter in controversy is within the
jurisdictional limits of this court.
4. Plaintiff has established venue in Tarrant County, so venue
for the counterclaims is also
properly in Tarrant County under TEX. C!V. PRAC. & REM. CODE
15.062(a).
5. Counterclaims against Plaintiff may require transfer to
Travis County if the suit progresses to
an action on the merits of those claims.
96-260449-12, Defendant's Original Answer & Counterclaims
Page 1
Exh. A, p. 24Appendix A, p. 89
-
Ill. GENERAL DENIAL
6. Defendant denies each and every allegation of Plaintiffs
Original Petition.
IV. COUNTERCLAIM FOR DECLARATORY JUDGMENT
7. Defendant requests that this Court issue declaratory judgment
that it has not infringed any
trademark belonging to Plaintiff. pursuant to the Texas Uniform
Declaratory Judgments Act,
Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, Chapter 37, in that:
a. Defendant's trademark has been active since 2008, during
which time it has provided
tutoring services. which falls under trademark International
Class 41.
b. Plaintiffs Texas-registered trademark, provided in its
petition, is for insurance and
financial services, falling under trademark International Class
36.
c. Plaintiff has based its case under an incorrect theory that
that every mark that includes
the word "Timarron" infringes Plaintiffs mark. However. there
are nearly 40
businesses in Texas that use "Timarron" or a similar mark,
including a home owner's
association in San Antonio, the Tamaron Property Owners
Association. which has
existed and used the mark for seven years prior to Plaintiffs
Texas registration.
V. COUNTERCLAIM FOR DISCLAIMER OR CANCELLATION
8. Defendant requests that this Court issue an order cancelling
Plaintiffs trademarks, as
Plaintiff does not appear to provide serv ices that would
appropriately fall under Class 36,
and should be cancelled pursuant to TEX. Bus. & COM. CODE
16.064(4)(D) [registered
mark was obtained fraudulently].
VI. COUNTERCLAIM FOR TORTIOUS INTERFERENCE WITH BUSINESS
RELATIONS
9. Defendant has suffered damages for Plaintiffs agents actions
that have interfered in
96-260449-12, Defendant's Original Answer & Counterclaims
Page 2
Exh. A, p. 25Appendix A, p. 90
-
potential leases and other contracts, and caused Defendant to
suffer malicious and wanton
interference, disturbance, or annoyance in her business
dealings.
VII. MOTION TO TRANSFER
10. In accordance with TEX. Bus. & COM. CODE 16.106 (20 12),
this action must be
transferred to Travis County, as it includes an action to cancel
a trademark. Defendant is
content to allow discovery and time for a potential settlement
before a hearing on this
motion to transfer in the hope that the issue might be settled
before hearing and court be
required to order on this issue.
VIII. ATTORNEY FEES
11. In accordance with TEX. CIV. PRAC. & REM. CODE 37,
Defendant requests attorney fees.
IX. PRAYER
12. Defendant prays the CoUI1, after notice and hearing or
trial, enters declaratory judgment
in favor of Defendant, cancel or amend Third-Party Defendant's
registered trademark,
awards Defendant the costs of court, attorney's fees, and such
further relief as Defendant
may be entitled to in law or in equity .
By: ~~~~~~~~~~~~----Warren V. Norred, Texas Bar 200 E. Abram,
Suite 300, Arlington, TX 760 10 Tel. (8 17) 704-3984, Fax. (8 17)
549-0161
96-260449-12, Defendant's Original Answer & Counterclaims
Page 3
Exh. A, p. 26Appendix A, p. 91
-
Applicant's Objection to Motion to Suspend Opposition
IN THE UNITED STATES PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE
BEFORE THE TRADEMARK TRIAL AND APPEAL BOARD
BARBARA MORTON
Opposer Opposition No: 91212131
v. Mark: TIMARRON
TIMARRON OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. In re Trademark No:
85780484
Applicant.
EXHIBIT B
MOTION FOR SUMMARY JUDGMENT
BY OPPOSER MORTON, IN CAUSE NO. 96-260449-121,
96TH DISTRICT COURT, TARRANT COUNTY, TEXAS
Exh. B, p. 1Appendix A, p. 92
-
. -\ Cause No. 096-260449-12 S
TIMARRON OWNERS ASSOC., INC. Plaintiff,
o-:"'
IN THE DISTRICT CO~lp ?J c..f!
~y v. 96TH JUDICIAL DISTRIG:l' .. I ". f1i ~- .
:;::.>---BARBARA LOUISE MORTON D/B/A/ TIMARRON COLLEGE
PREP
-;;:. ~~~\ TARRANT COUNTY, TEXAS c:~
Defendant. ,..
DEFENDANT MORTON'S TRADITIONAL AND NO EVIDENCE MOTION FOR
SUMMARY JUDGMENT
Defendant Morton asks the court to sign a final summary judgment
against Plaintiff on all claims
under the traditional and no-evidence standards, and in favor of
Defendant's Counter-Claims.
A. Introduction
I. Plaintiff sued Defendant Morton for: a. trademark
infringement, b. unjust enrichment, c. tortious interference with
prospective business relations, and d. unfair competition.
2. Defendant answered the suit with counterclaims for: a.
declaratory judgment, b. disclaimer or cancellation of Plaintiffs
Texas-registered mark, c. tortious interference with business
relations, d. motion to transfer the case to Travis County, and e.
attorney fees.
3. Discovery in this suit is governed by a Level 2 discovery
control plan.
B. Defendant moves for a No-Evidence Summary Judgment against
Plaintiff's Claims
4. Trademark Infringement - Plaintiff can show no evidence that
Defendant used Plaintiffs
registered mark in connection with the selling and offering for
sale of goods that is likely to
deceive or cause confusion or mistake as to the source or origin
of said good, which is
required to constitute infringement under TEX. Bus. & COMM.
CODE 16.26, because
96-260449-12, Defendant's Traditional and No Evidence MSJ Page
1
-\
Exh. B, p. 2Appendix A, p. 93
-
Plaintiff's mark represents only insurance & financial
products found in International
Trademark Class 36 (see Plaintiff's Original Petition, Exhibit
A), and Defendant uses the
mark only to advertise tutoring services that no reasonable
person could associate with
Plaintiff's mark. Without evidence of likely confusion, the
infringement claim must fail.
5. Unjust Enrichment - Generally, to sustain an action for
unjust enrichment, there must be some basis for the law to infer a
promise on the part of the defendant to the plaintiff to pay
for the benefit or property, as discussed in Berger Engineering
Co. v. Village Casuals, Inc.,
576 S. W .2d 649, 652 (Tex. Civ. App.--Beaumont 1978, no writ)
("there must exist between
the parties an implication that the party performing the
services would be paid by the party
accepting and benefiting by them"). The absence of such a
relationship between a coventurer
and the other coventurer's father, for example, defeated a
coventurer's claim of unjust enrichment against the father, even
though the father took depreciation and operating losses
stemming from the joint venture as deductions in his personal
federal income tax return in Shwiff v. Priest, 650 S. W .2d 894,
902 (Tex. App.-San Antonio 1983, writ refd n.r.e.). Plaintiff can
show no relationship between the Parties that will sustain a claim
for unjust enrichment, so its claim must fail.
6. Tortious Interference With Prospective Business Relations -
Plaintiff's claim must fail
because Plaintiff can provide no evidence on any of its
elements, as listed in Faucette v.
Chantos, 322 S.W.3d 901, 914 (Tex. App.--Houston [14th Dist.]
2010, no pet. h.):
a. There must be a "reasonable probability" that the plaintiff
would have entered into the
prospective relations. This must be a specific relationship.
b. The defendant's conduct must have been independently tortious
or wrongful.
c. The defendant's interference must have resulted in actual
harm or damage.
96-260449-12, Defendant's Traditional and No Evidence MSJ
Page2
Exh. B, p. 3Appendix A, p. 94
-
d. The defendant's acts of interference must have been the
proximate cause of the plaintiffs
damages.
e. When the interference is with prospective business relations
that are the subject of competition, the plaintiff must show
defendant's actions violated antitrust laws or caused
third persons to refuse to deal with the plaintiff. Caller-Times
Pub. Co. v. Triad
Communications, 855 S. W .2d 18, 22 (Tex. App.-Corpus Christi
1993, no writ).
7. Unfair Competition- Among other elements, Plaintiff must
prove that Defendant's use of the
trade mark would be likely to confuse the public. Thompson v.
Thompson Air Conditioning &
Heating, Inc., 884 S. W .2d 555, 558 (Tex. App.-Texarkana 1994,
no writ). As the Parties
provide very different services that have no relation,
Defendant's use of the mark would not
be likely to confuse the public.
8. Defendant attaches affidavits to this motion as Exhibit A to
establish facts in support of this
motion and incorporates the affidavits by reference.
C. Argument & Authorities Supporting Defendant's No-Evidence
Motion
9. A court may grant a no-evidence motion for summary judgment
if the movant can show that adequate time for discovery has passed
and the nonmovant has no evidence to support one or
more essential elements of its claim or defense. TEX. R. CIV. P.
166a(i).
I 0. An adequate time for discovery has passed.
11. Defendant is entitled to summary judgment because Plaintiff
cannot, by any admissible evidence, demonstrate there is any
evidence to support the specific elements as discussed
supra, causing all five of Plaintiff's substantive claims to
fail.
96-260449-12, Defendant's Traditional and No Evidence MSJ
Page3
Exh. B, p. 4Appendix A, p. 95
-
D. Defendant also moves for a Traditional Summary Judgment
against Plaintifrs Claims
12. To prevail on summary judgment, a movant must conclusively
establish all elements of its cause of action as a matter of law,
TEX. R. Crv. P. 166a(c); Defendant herein incorporates the
prior factual discussion in previous paragraphs, and adds the
additional facts and argument in
support of a traditional summary judgment as follows. 13. Facts-
There is no reason to believe that consumers will confuse TIMARRON
OWNER'S
ASSOCIATION with TIMARRON COLLEGE PREP, as consumers are already
aware of
these two businesses and others in operation in the Southlake
and surrounding area, along
with many others, and would not see yet another business in the
area using the word
TIMARRON as connected to Plaintiff. As discussed in Exhibit A,
the following commercial
enterprises exist near Plaintiff:
a. "The Courtyard at Timarron" is a current business in
Southlake, TX. b. "The Villages at Timarron" is a current business
in Southlake, TX. c. "Timarron Family Medicine, PA" is a current
business in Southlake, TX. d. "Timarron at Creekside Park" is a
current business in Southlake, TX. e. "Timarron Financial Services,
LLC" is a current business in Southlake, TX. f. "Timarron Partners,
Inc." is a current business in Grapevine, TX. g. "Timmaron LLC" is
a current business in Richardson, TX. h. "Timarron Capital Inc" is
a current business in Irving, TX. i. "Timarron Custom Homes, Inc."
is a current business in Keller, TX. j. "Timarron Venture, Ltd." is
a current business in Dallas, TX. k. "Timarron Venture One, L.C ...
is a current business in Dallas, TX. I. "Timarron Shopping Center,
L.P." is a current business in Dallas, TX. m. "Timarron Mortgage
Group Inc." is a current business in Dallas, TX. n. "Timarron Land
Corporation" is a current business in Mesquite, TX. o. "Timarron
Skin & Laser" is a current business in Southlake, TX. p.
"Timarron Professional Eye" is a current business in Southlake, TX.
q. ''Timarron Golf Club Maintenance" is a current business in
Southlake, TX. r. "Timarron Family Medicine" is a current business
in Southlake, TX. s. "Village at Timarron 4120" is a current
business in Southlake, TX. t. "Timarron Tiger Sharks" is a current
business in Southlake, TX.
96-260449-12, Defendant's Traditional and No Evidence MSJ
Page4
Exh. B, p. 5Appendix A, p. 96
-
14. No similarity of Goods - Plaintiff's claims requires at
least a reasonable possibility that
consumer confusion might result from Defendant's use of the word
"Timarron", but the
services provided by TIMARRON OWNER'S ASSOCIATION is not
remotely connected to
the educational tutoring services provided by Defendant.
15. No Confusion - After recognizing that the services offered
by the Plaintiff and Defendant are
so different, and there are so many other commercial enterprises
using the word .. Timarron",
no reasonable person could be confused as to think that one
organization is responsible for all
of the enterprises.
16. Affirmative Defense of Laches - Applicant has been using
TIMARRON as part of her mark
for years, along with many other entities in the area. Timarron
home owners have employed
Defendant's mentoring services for years. The delay in filing
suit was not reasonable or
excusable. Though the Lanham Act has no Statute of Limitations,
federal courts often look to
state law and apply the doctrine of laches accordingly; the
Texas Deceptive Trade Practices
Act has a statute of limitations of two years, which supports a
finding of laches in this case.
Plaintiff cannot lie in wait while Defendant builds her business
and then try to force a
business name change.
17. Affirmative Defense of Dilution - The word "TIMARRON" is
used by many businesses in
the Southlake, TX area. In the minds of consumers, the word
"TIMARRON" is not attached
to one particular business. The word "TIMARRON" is diluted; no
single. entity can claim
exclusi