Dolly Parton vs. Polly Darton: When Legal Parody Hits Trademark Limits (S3 E4)

What happens when a clever joke collides with federal trademark law? In this episode of Law 401, hosts Nicole and Michael explore a unique Rhode Island legal dispute involving country music icon Dolly Parton and a local food truck company called The Perky Turkey, which attempted to trademark the name "Polly Darton" for a turkey sandwich food truck. Joined by guest attorney and legal scholar Luke Blackadar, Deputy Director of the Arts & Business Council of Greater Boston and entertainment law professor, we unpack the mechanics of trademark rights, brand dilution, and First Amendment protections for parody.